Gathering with General Board of Global Ministries' directors the last twenty-four hours we have heard about the heartbreak of Pakistani Christian missionaries and families losing children to suicide bombers. We have also acknowledged the loss of one of our beloved missionaries in Africa, Tshala Mengo, in a bus accident on the other side of the world. We have been reminded that while the work of the missionary is full of joy and fruitful work it is also harrowing and dangerous at times.
Hearing these stories and being touched so deeply during our opening worship as directors I connect quickly to the harrowing journey Jesus and the disciples were on, particularly as we begin the Holy Week journey with Christians all over the world. Missionaries serving with the General Board of Global Ministries do so all over the world. We have used the phrase the last couple of years in connection to this saying we send people, "From everywhere to everywhere." Like Jesus and the disciples, these missionaries and their families humbly, lovingly and simply work to lead within the communities and regions they are sent to improve people's lives and live out the gospel in both word and deed.
I would invite you to remember these amazing servants of the gosple on this Palm Sunday, imagining both the humility and the great power of Jesus riding a donkey into Jerusalem where he would give of himself, completely, to change the world. Take time to pray for the missionaries of the United Methodist Board of Global Ministries that they may continue with great humility and courage, preach the gospel in word and deed wherever they are located and serving throughout the world.
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