When Barnabas and Saul had finished their mission, they returned from Jerusalem, taking with them John, also called Mark. (Acts 12:25)
Just because you go does not mean you are meant to stay. My first mission trip was to Africa. I knew God was calling me to go to that part of the world. I could not explain why, and I did not fully understand what my mission would be when I arrived, but I knew I had to go. My time is Africa was one of the most fulfilling and fruitful experiences of my life. However, when the mission trip was complete, I knew it was time to return home. As much as I loved the ministry in Africa and the friendships made, I knew there was more work for me to do at home.
Similarly, Barnabas and Saul served the Lord for a year in Antioch before the Spirit called them for their historic missionary journey. They obeyed the call to go. And when their mission was complete, they returned home to receive their next assignment.
Assignments are for seasons, not lifetimes. Thus, Christ-followers must consistently seek out the will of God and be open to a call to return. Yes, God calls us to go into the world, but oftentimes he also calls us to return home once our mission is complete. We must live our lives with a willingness to go, even if the call to go is not for a lifetime.
Share the gospel with someone right where you are.
Tara Klein is a Wesley Seminary graduate who enjoys relaxing with her family, serving others, and sharing God’s unconditional love with the lost and brokenhearted.
© 2022 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
