“The foundation of a missional life is the decision to offer God our plans in exchange for his plans. It requires that we are willing to leave our world so he can send us to extend His kingdom.” (From The Tangible Kingdom Primer by Halter and Smay, “What is Missional?”) Do you recall Mary’s response to the angel’s message from God concerning her conception and birth of the Son of God? “Behold, (I am) the servant of the Lord.” (Luke 1:38) She referred to herself using the word for a bond-slave, the same word that was to become a favored expression of Paul.
The angel had been sent to her, a missional phenomena, with a specific message, just as to Zechariah earlier. Upon hearing the highly disturbing message, “You will conceive and bear a Son” Mary asked the most obvious question possible, “How can this be since I am a virgin?” While the response to that question was specific, it still left many unanswered questions for the young “favored one”. Her response was to exchange her plans for God’s plan. Whatever dreams and ambitions she may have had, were forever altered by the mission of God. His will was her first desire; “May it be to me as you have said.”
What personal plans and ambitions may need to be altered or enhanced as you seek God’s mission this year? What part of “your world” must be seconded to “His Kingdom” so that you may fulfill the purpose for which He has sent you? Mary did not ‘leave’ her world; she allowed herself to become the instrument of God’s blessing to her world, “the servant of the Lord.”
At Verge 2010, you and I will have opportunity to explore the implications of being kingdom servants to our world. If you have not done so, visit the Verge website, see the list of colleagues who will be speaking and guiding our dialogue, then register today! I look forward to seeing you there.
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