When one hears the word “mission,” what comes to mind? Do you think about NASA? Do you think about a movie titled Mission: Impossible? Do you think about the fabulous and historic Mission Trail in San Antonio? Maybe you think about the formal summary of purpose that an organization uses to tell the public what it does? Hopefully, when you hear the word “mission,” you will think about the Great Commission, where Jesus instructs his disciples to “go and make disciples of all nations.” (Matt. 28: 18-20)
In years past, most people thought about missionaries as those who go to witness about Jesus and His love in a foreign country. While that is certainly still the case, did you know that other countries and religions now look at the United States as one of the most important mission fields in the world? Other denominations and religions are sending their missionaries to us here in the United States, which makes me wonder what is going on.
I recently was invited to participate in a mission festival at a congregation in Cisco. Along with me was Rev. Yohannes Mengsteab, Mission and Ministry Facilitator, Area B. Yohannes delivered a message based on Rev. 7:9-17, entitled “The Mission Field Next Door.” In Texas we have “a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language.” Rev. Mengsteab encouraged the congregation to look for mission opportunities next door — in their community, their neighborhood and their places of employment.
Mission outreach is a top priority for the Texas District. More than a 100 men and women missionaries are leading this outreach effort delivering the saving message of Jesus Christ to more than 9,000 people each week. More than $2.8 million will go to support mission churches in Texas during this year. In addition, special gifts to Texas Partners in Mission (TPIM) cover the unmet mission need each year.
TPIM Sunday will be celebrated in the Texas District on October 16. This date is the perfect opportunity to start or rekindle a mission effort in the various congregations around the district. Bulletin inserts or posters will be available on the Texas District website in the next few weeks. I invite you to consider celebrating the mission and missionaries who have “beautiful feet.” (Rom. 10:14-15)
Above all, please lift up the 100 plus missionaries in the Texas District who carry the message of Christ crucified to the many different tribes, nations, people and languages.
If I can be of any assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact me.
May the Lord continue to bless you and keep you in His grace!
By: Lanny Moore
Director of Development, TPIM