In the Gospel of Mark Chapter 10, Jesus encounters a man who is commonly referred to as the rich young ruler. It is a familiar story. The interchange begins with a question, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” and ends with the man walking away sad. I don’t think that is how the young ruler envisioned the conversation would go. In typical fashion, Jesus cut to the issue at hand. Is he just wanting affirmation for his lifestyle – a nice atta-boy and slap on the back – or is he positioned to change in response to Jesus’ answer? The choice is his and his alone.
The same is true for each of us, as Jesus reveals Himself, you decide how you will respond. The choice is yours.
Will you trust in the character of your God? The choice is yours. Will you be aware of His communication? The choice is yours. Will you surrender your life to Him? The choice is yours. When Jesus gives an answer – even one you don’t like – will you walk away or will you respond? The choice is yours.
We have returned to this story and challenge time and again in our current Discipleship Training School as we wrestle through the lies, misconceptions and hurt that distorts our view of God, and as we seek to know God for who He is. One our speakers asked us “Will we listen to the father of lies or the Father of Light?” while another challenged us “Are you willing to submit to the Word of God even when you disagree?”
These questions and challenges are not for the light of heart. Yet, they are questions that will determine the direction of our lives and the influence we have in our communities.
These 18 students come from all over North America and Europe, representing distinct communities, cultures, family, and friends. All of them, in need of their Savior, but, as Paul writes, “But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?”
In one month, this group will be released into the mountain villages of the Himalayas and the coastlands of Taiwan to share Christ. They will be presenting others with these very same questions and they will be ready to speak and pray with those they meet. Why will they be ready? Because they are not faint of heart and have wrestled through these questions themselves.
Looking Ahead:
Winter teams leave for Asia March 31st
Spring schools begin: April 6th
Will you pray for opportunities for this class to be bold with their faith?
By Trevor Larson
Praying for each of you xo