What are the traditions and special memories that make up your Christmas? What would it take for you to give those up? Our teammates come to the Far North from all over the world out of love for God and a desire to make him known. They leave the traditions and memories of their home cultures to dive willingly into a new way of living and celebrating. Even though it is a life-changing decision, it is also a satisfying sacrifice. Notice, I didn't say easy:
These are a few of the sacrifices, and to be sure they are painful at times. However, all of us in SEND North know a truth that keeps us moving past the pain. It is in these places of hardship that God is closer, sweeter, and more powerfully seen. There is nothing to be compared to seeing God move in power through our weak, fallible obedience. Giving oneself to be used to snatch precious souls from the jaws of our adversary is a life well lived. Truthfully, this is the heart of Christmas. Our Great and Mighty God made the greatest sacrifices.
Despite all of this sacrifice, Jesus endured for "the joy that was set before him." He saw the end game and knew that the sacrifice was worth it. That baby born into a manger was an invasion on a cosmic scale. It began as a small mustard seed but it is spreading. We have the privilege of partaking in it, and by we, I mean you as well!
So as we enjoy our gifts and ponder the greatest gift of all, let's ponder how we can sacrifice to make God's name great around us. To be sure it will be painful at times, but it will be a satisfying sacrifice!
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