MATURITY ≠ INDEPENDENCE
Rather than give you something to read today, I want to offer you something to watch. It is a 32 minute video on the subject of missions. Galactica is fun. Bible study has value. Missions are vital and incredibly important to my heart. I know some of my regulars think I don't have much use for the church, and indeed I don't have much use for the "c" church as a human institution, but the universal "C" Chuch, the bride of Christ, is of ultimate importance. Please, I beg you, take the time for this: CLICK HERE.

In case you can't or won't take the time for the video here's a few key points: America is the 3rd most pagan nation on earth followed only by India and China. Africa has as many people who claim to be born again Christians as the whole of Europe and North America combined. The rate of growth of Christianity on the continent of Africa is several million per year while Christianity is declining in "western" (N America/Europe) culture. The American church generally thinks of itself as mature, as a the leader. We mistakenly think maturity means independence. Americans in general feel and act superior and in general think they need to always give and that no one has anything to offer us or that we don't need anything. This creates a one-way mission which is counter-scriptural and damaging to both hemespheres. Part of humility is accepting as well as giving, and every part of the body of Christ has something to offer every other part.

I'm not talking about tolorance and I don't suggest we quit missions. I'm talking about symbiosis, unity and harmony in the united body of the bride of our Lord. Love between brothers is a two-way street. Love is a verb. We need to realize we aren't the whole body, just a part. All parts are vital, and the most humble shall be exulted while the greatest shall be made low.

Humility has a whole new dimension for me. I hope you can take time to listen to what this man has to say...