From the Coordinator: Missions Leaders, Come and See

When some of John the Baptist’s disciples met Jesus, He asked them what they were seeking (John 1:38). They had heard John declare Jesus to be the “Lamb of God,” and wanted to know where He was staying. Do you remember how Jesus responded? He said, “Come and you will see” (John 1:39). They did and their lives were forever changed.

After Philip told Nathanael they had found the one whom Moses and the prophets spoke of, Jesus of Nazareth. Nathanael said, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Do you remember how Philip responded? “Come and see” (John 1:46). Nathanael did come and his life was forever changed.

Jesus continues to invite those whom the Father is calling to Himself in places all over the world. How? Through His Spirit working in and through His disciples. We are hearing stories of more and more people coming to faith during the pandemic, but we are also hearing of a greater need for workers to continue the work of Christ all over the world. Don’t believe me? Come and see. Your life might be forever changed.

About 20 years ago I was at my presbytery meeting listening to a seasoned pastor in our presbytery describe his call to missionary service. He was a leader in our presbytery and a faithful pastor of a local church. He described how a friend convinced him to take a short-term mission trip to Uganda—he had never gone on one before. It changed his life. After coming back, he and his wife immediately began preparing to go and serve long term. He thanked his friend, who he said was called by God to take stodgy old Presbyterians like him on short-term trips to expand their understanding of what God is doing all across the world. The pastor and his wife are still serving in Uganda today.

We want to invite pastors, mission directors, and church members to come and see. Come and see Jesus at work through His saints. Come and see the need for more workers. Come and see if God is calling you to serve in global missions. The first step is joining us on a short-term vision or mission trip. “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest” (Matthew 9:37-38).

Browse vision trips or contact your regional hub to find out if your region is hosting an upcoming trip.