Sow the Seeds Where You Are

Hudson Taylor, the famous missionary credited with opening China to the gospel, said of his labors, “I have found that there are three stages in every great work of God: first, it is impossible, then it is difficult, then it is done.” Hudson Taylor worked for many years before the people of the Orient were open to hearing about Jesus. Some say he was a special man who accomplished a special work. He spread the seed of God’s word to any who would listen. He trusted God to cause the seed to spring up in each hearer’s heart.

When I heard Hudson Taylor’s story, I thought, “I could never be a missionary.” I was so sure God would call me to another country where I would have to learn a new language and deal with some difficult situations and hardships. But I soon learned the call to His missionary work is not left to a few chosen men and women. Jesus calls us all.

Before Jesus ascended back to heaven, He said,

“Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” Mark 16:15 (KJV).

His call to action may never lead you to some faraway land. Your mission field may be within the four walls of your home. Or on your job. Or in the supermarket. Or to the couple next door. Our commission is to tell our sons and daughters, husbands, co-workers and neighbors all the great things Christ has done for us.

We have been given the amazing task of sharing the Good News that Jesus, God’s own son, died for our sins, was buried and rose again on the third day so that we could be forgiven and receive newness of life. Hurting, lonely, and sin-sick people all around us need to hear God’s message of hope. We have been blessed with the great task of spreading the seed of God’s word. We don’t need to travel to the other side of the world to fulfill our calling to the mission field. All we need to do is sow the seed right where we are.

It may not be comfortable to be a seed-bearer. Psalm 126:6 shows us that seed-bearing may cause tears,

“He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed ...”

But it carries the promise of an abundant harvest,

“… shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” Psalm 126:6 (KJV)

Jesus said,

“... Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.” John 4:35 (KJV)

No travel required. Just eyes to see the open doors, ears to hear the Great Commission, and a heart to answer his call. Will you accept your call today and look for someone to share his message of redemption with? “Lift up your eyes”, Jesus said, and welcome to your mission field.

Dear Father, thank you for your grace, which you have abundantly poured out upon our lives. Because of your great love for us, please grant us courage and determination to share your message of redemption with the people you have placed around us. Prepare their hearts and provide the opportunity. Help us not to shrink back in fear. We don’t want to be silent when you open a door. Help us to have the words we need to touch their hearts. Thank you in advance for your work in our lives regarding the call to share your Good News. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Copyright © 2018 Carla G. Pollard, used with permission.