Area Director's July Devotional

A Moment to Cherish, a Fire to Rekindle

Although missionary renewal this year had a diversity of speakers, the Spirit orchestrated their testimonies into one dominant theme: Be in awe of God and His destiny for our lives.  We were challenged by Greg Mundis to keep it focused and real.   We were moved by Judy Graner to magnify God and choose joy despite pain and suffering.   We were reminded by Bryan Jarrett to have a sense of wonder in God’s call, His destiny for our lives.   We were invited by Paul Trementozzi to declare to all the random trash heaps of our lives that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose.   Tonight, it all came together as we commissioned the new missionaries.   As we prayed and laid our hands on those Called by God, we could sense the fresh fire of God.   It was a moment to cherish.   For all, it was a reminder to rekindle that fire as we stood in awe that God has a Call and a Destiny for each one of us.  As Paul said to Timothy “I often think of that genuine faith of yours….I now remind you to stir up that inner fire which God gave you at your ordination.  For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power and love and a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:5-7 J.B. Phillips

What is in a name?

 

What’s in a name?  In the annals of history the name “Geronimo” is synonymous with being a real fighter.  Geronimo was a fearless Apache war chief who fought to defend his people.  His real name wasn’t Geronimo; it was Goyathlay, “One Who Yawns”.  The seminal event that changed his name was a vicious attack by Mexican soldiers that killed his family.  Goyathlay, the yawner becomes Geronimo, the warrior.    

The seminal event in the believer’s life is just as dramatic though not necessarily as tragic as Geronimo’s.  The call of God disrupts our former life and awakens us to God’s destiny for our lives as we spend quality time with Jesus. 

When Simon Peter answers Jesus’ question of Who He was, Peter responds: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”  Peter knew who Jesus was, because he had spent time with Him and God gave him divine insight.  Jesus affirms him, “I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church”.  Mat 16:18

What’s in a name?  Our God-given identity.  As we spend time with Jesus, He tells us who we really are.  He whispers our new names.  He awakens us to His divine purpose for our lives.  Energized believers are how he builds His church.