The gravity of the word, mission, can easily be lost in its abundance. We see it everywhere, in our local christian coffee shops that display a big sign reading “Our mission”, in our church lobbies where there are signs to “support our mission” with flyers and fundraisers, even in what we are told is our most prized and essential part of our faith; carrying out Jesus’ mission. 

Mission seems to be the most integral part of our understanding of the Christian faith, so what does this actually mean and look like?

John 20:21 says it very simply, “Again Jesus said, ‘Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.’” 

Jesus proclaims that just as the Father sent him as a vessel of light to the world, he is calling us to the same responsibility, trusted beacons of light to all nations, all people, all creation. 

Easily put but not always easily understood. The World Race defines this umbrella idea of mission to the idea of partnership with the Father. 

As Matthew 28 declares that Jesus has all authority in heaven and earth, our responsibility as carriers of that message is to partner with Him in that mission. For every good thing that the Father gifts is a product of His victory and not our works, therefore, our job as His partners is not to glorify ourselves but display His glory in our obedience. 

Simply put, mission is obedience. Mission doesn’t fit any worldly mold of pictures with African children or soccer games with orphans. These things are a beautiful product of something much larger than an instagram post. 

On the World Race, my perception of mission has been absolutely broken down and rebuilt. Partnership with the Father has looked like big projects like building a roof from scratch to mundane tasks like sharing a spoonful of Nutella with one of the staff members. The concept of mission doesn’t fit into a nine to five schedule with written instructions. It’s choosing to obey the Lord in humility and simplicity, even if it looks as insignificant as giving up a spoonful of Nutella.

Mission is everywhere and everyday. It’s waking up everyday asking the Father how you can partner with Him, asking Him how he wants to display His glory in you today. Mission is allowing Him to use us for His will. 

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18  states, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” As the Body of Christ we are instructed to be in a continual posture of worship. This is the heart of mission. That we can be vessels of His light that are always available and always eager to partner with the Father in His great will. 

The World Race emphasizes the essential ingredient of humility and obedience in Mission. Where we become obedient to His mission, we inevitably find His glory. 

Is the Father calling you to missions? He may be using The World Race as an opportunity to partner with you in furthering the Kingdom, in the world and within yourself.