Embracing the Mission Means Bearing Much Fruit
The month of March is Missions Month here at NVC. We spend it wearing international garb, eating interesting food, highlighting different mission projects, and raising awareness for serving around the world. It’s important to us, in our giving and in our actions. However, we must remember that our actions mean nothing without Christ.
Remain in Me, and I in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit of itself but must remain in the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches; the one who remains in Me, and I in him bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.
John 15:4-5
John 15:4-5 reminds us that apart from Christ, we can do nothing. Our good deeds, our efforts—they all find their source and significance in our connection to Jesus. This truth resonates deeply as we reflect on our dedication to missions, both locally and globally. It’s not just about going somewhere; it’s about staying rooted in Christ wherever we are.
During a recent mission trip to India, the depth of this truth became even more apparent. Amidst the hustle and bustle, amidst the spiritual battles and challenges, we found ourselves immersed in God’s work. And it was invigorating. It reminded us that fruitful work requires effort and commitment, but it also yields incredible rewards.
It was not an easy trip, by any means. Multiple people on our team had issues with dog bites, covid tests, flights, rashes, you name it. Serving the Lord can sometimes place a target on your back, but that means you’re doing something! Perseverance is key.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Ephesians 6:10-12
Ephesians 6:10-12 speaks to the spiritual battles we faced, both on the mission field and in our daily lives. But armed with God’s armor, we stood firm, knowing that our struggle was not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces. Prayer became our lifeline, a powerful tool in the face of adversity.
One of the most impactful moments of the trip happened on the plane ride home. A chance encounter with a Buddhist man turned into a divine appointment. As we shared our faith with him, we realized that Missions Month isn’t confined to distant lands—it’s wherever God places us. Our friend’s openness to hearing about Jesus reminded us of the urgency of our mission, even at 35,000 feet; we can’t be afraid to spread the Gospel.
As we reflect on these experiences, we’re reminded of Christ’s last command in Matthew.
And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to follow all that I commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18-20
It’s a daunting task, but it’s also a privilege. We have the opportunity to shine the light of Christ in a dark world, to share the hope we have with those who desperately need it.
So, friends, let’s embrace the mission with courage and conviction. Let’s stay rooted in Christ, armed with prayer and equipped with God’s Word. Let’s be willing vessels, ready to go wherever He leads us. Because there are eight billion reasons why the world needs to hear the gospel, and each one is worth it.
And if you’re reading this and you’ve never made a decision to follow Jesus, know that today is your day of salvation. He’s reaching out to you, offering forgiveness, love, and eternal life. All you have to do is reach back and say yes.
Let’s go forth in faith, knowing that with Christ, we can do all things. Together, let’s make an eternal impact for the glory of God.