Swaziland- We had just walked through the “Welcome Center” where orphans arriving for the first time are transitioned into the Bulembu family. The few staff guiding us just beamed with love while we saw the kids. There was this excitement in the air as they ended the tour of their new rehabbed building. Moved and somewhat emotional I confess I walked away from the group to get some space. Looking into the distance, down the hill at all the orphan homes I wondered what our role was in all this. How are we to serve the King in this part of His vineyard? What does God want to do with Africa Revolution in places of need like this? As the questions kept coming to my mind I heard these few words overpower them all; Raise up an Army!

I confess doubt mixed in with the excitement of those words. Yes if I were one of the 12 disciples I would have been Thomas. I understand that there are many folks willing to hear about God’s Kingdom in Africa and few willing to support the work financially but there are even fewer willing to GO! But like all of those called to walk in faith to accomplish Kingdom things, I fear, and see my own inadequacy first. Believe me, ministry is not all courage and boldness, and like the Apostle Paul says to the Corinthians “I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling.” (1Cor1:3)

But the words were unmistakable and in my minds eye, I could see this army marching up the road towards me. And besides, I’ve been in this long enough to know this isn’t really about me doing it, it’s an invitation to watch God do it from up close.

I’m not sure how He is going to raise this army but I do know that God is putting Africa in people’s hearts across the world. He is looking for people who will go and give all of themselves for the broken and the needy, people willing to be the hands and feet of Jesus. He’s not just looking for world travelers or the adventuresome type. He’s looking for nervous, trembling Joe Schmos who are simply willing to be obedient.

Join this Army, the Kingdom needs you!

“To obey is better than sacrifice, I don’t need your money I want your life.”

–Song by Keith Green

This entry was posted on Friday, September 25th, 2009 at 1:00 pm and is filed under The AR Ministry. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.