Just Play

Travis is a really great friend of mine and is in Sudan, Africa with his wife Nikki right now. They felt called to go on a trip to Sudan and help serve the people there. They have been building relationships with young kids deprived of affection, helping build shelves, teaching them how to jump rope and play American Football, reading scripture together, and challenging the youth to be at the frontline of Jesus' redemption plan for Sudan.

I am extremely inspired by these two in a couple ways. The first thing that amazes me is that they take the  mission of the church very seriously. Jesus tells us that if we fail to provide for the least of these we are failing to provide for Jesus himself. It's clear to me that they both have a heart to serve "the least of these". The second thing that blows me away is how they partner together. Marriage is supposed to unite a man and woman to become one and they do this well. Their unique combination of gifting and passions is being woven together to craft one amazing and unstoppable force for the Kingdom of Heaven.

You should read some of the blog posts from their trip. If you've never considered meeting the needs of people on a global level click here and let their stories inspire you. To be brutally honest there is nothing supernatural about this preschool teacher and life insurance salesman. Ordinary people being used for extraordinary things is not a new concept for Jesus. With every hug, kind word, nail being hammered, playful game, serious conversation, the words of Jesus become flesh through Nikki and Travis. I am extremely proud to know them.

Global Missions should be a part of the regular rhythm for those who follow Jesus. In the most recent blog post Nikki mentions something I think is very profound and hits the heart of what it looks like to be used by God in missions work. This is how she put it.

"After lunch Trav came to play with the kids in the school yard. He was teaching them American football and I was still hard at work learning Mongola. It doesn’t seem like a hard game, but when I say “Can you teach me how to play” They say “Yes“, and just play…without the explaining." 

If you feel moved with compassion to help those in need God is already preparing you. Now all you need to do is "just play". When you get confirmation in your heart there is no other option "just play". Don't waist too much time over thinking this. Get your hands dirty. Just play!

One last thing. God is asking myself and a small group of my friends to "just play". We feel God calling us to serve orphans in India. The details are still being worked out and there are a few extra complications that could be on the horizon. We would appreciate your prayers.