The two best known versions of Jesus' Great Commission are found at the end of Matthew and at the beginning of Acts. We read in those places:

"All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. I will be with you to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:18-20

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Acts 1:8

From what Jesus says it's clear that our mission as his disciples isn't just about us. The mission entrusted to us will carry us around the world to every nation and people group.

Sunday evening April 12 we were blessed to hear from Tim Turner. Tim currently serves as pastor of our GMC congregation in San Augustine. In his presentation he told about how his whole family will be moving to Tanzania in East Africa in response to God's calling. Their primary area of ministry will be in helping set up a network to train pastors and church leaders. When the average education level is what we'd consider third grade, doing substantive theological education is a challenge. Through their networking they'll also be involved in helping Christian communities with economic development.

That in itself was exciting enough – but there's more! Ahead of his move Tim's been networking with others in the region: leaders from Rwanda, the DRC, Zambia, Kenya, and even as far away as Madagascar. God is on the move in East Africa! The work is not easy. With the vast poverty, political instability, and endemic wars around the DRC, it's not always safe.

For us, the exciting thing is we get to be a part of what God will be doing through the Turner family! The night Tim came over a thousand dollars were given for their support.  Our Finance Committee has approved using part of our Lenten offering given for missions to go for the support. Other groups and families in the church have heard the call and are responding also.

In Matthew 9 we see Jesus looking at the harvest field and calling for workers. The Turners are going to the East African field. How will you respond to Jesus in your local field?

1 Corinthians 15:58
Rev. Richard Heyduck