This morning I sat in a coffee shop near a Baguio market (pictured above) looking out over the city with John Piper's book "Don't Waste Your Life". If you have never read his book - it is a must read. (And that coming from someone who reads a lot of books.) We live in a world of 6.5 billion people and more than 4 billion are without Christ. Approximately 1 billion live on less than $1 a day.
I think one of the greatest needs in America is an urgent call to radical Kingdom living. That doesn't mean we all need to leave home and go to Ilo Ilo (though some should go), but everyone should be doing something for the expansion of the Kingdom through the proclamation of the gospel and the care of the poor and needy. (Gospel proclamation and concern for the poor work hand in hand.)
The older I get, the more I'm focused on making a Kingdom contribution. Every day I live is one less I have to give for the Kingdom - and one day closer to the day when I will give an account for all the deeds I have done.
When Pastor John first talked with me about the opportunity to become a Teaching Pastor in Little Rock, AK - my advice was simple. "From a purely selfish point of view - I want you to stay. But it's not about me - or you - it's all about the kingdom. We'll be together forever." I can tell you from my time with John - that is truly his focus. Even, as Jesus said, if it means "leaving father and mother" or friends or home . . . Let me say it loud and clear - "It's all about the Kingdom!"
God help me - and the church I lead to move beyond our provincialism, to give up some ocassional comforts, and to spend our lives for the glory of the King through the expansion of His Kingdom.
2 comments:
For what it's worth, this BIBLICAL idea of having a "Kingdom Mindset" has really effected my life. It's the answer to why i felt so much anger towards the issues of "secondary separation" (a proclaimed GARB distictive)...it's the answer to why we can rejoice when God leads in a person's life (even if it means saying goodbye)...it's the fuel behind our pursuit for excellence in ALL things and EVANGELISM: it's our love for God in action...for HIS Kingdom (and the promise of the physical, eternal Kingdom to come).
AMEN! I just finished reading "Don't Waste Your Life" and cannot stop thinking about it. I want to do more for the Kingdom. What else really matters??? Last night Fleet said to me, "Mom, I am the most proud of Dad when he is overseas teaching in the poverty-stricken areas." Your life is having an impact on many--starting with your own sons. I miss you like crazy, but giving you up for 3 weeks is one small thing I can do for the Kingdom. I'm so proud of you, and I love you. Persevere!
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