Dryness (by Thom)

My hunch is we lose more people to dryness than to certified disasters. Perhaps one man in 10 can stay standing in multicolor catastrophe; only one in 1,000 can stay standing in dryness. - Andree Seu; World Magazine; January 28, 2006

I came across this statement this week while surfing the net, and it certainly spoke to me. I’m not in one of those ‘dry areas’ now, but I can relate – and I think most people can, as well. I tend to notice that during these times here in Mali I get impatient for the luxuries of America I miss: things like fast food, internet that always works, electricity that always works, the video rental store, football, supermarkets, and Dr. Pepper. While I was reflecting on Andree’s statement, I realized that I did the same thing in the States. It’s a part of the human condition that we think more about what we don’t have, rather than what we do have. Amanda and I have been blessed here in Mali with many things. We have made new friends, get to see new things, and most importantly, we know we are enabling the Church Planting missionaries and Medical missionaries to do what they do best, for the glory of Christ. When I stop and think about it there is no doubt the blessings outnumber the costs.

I have made a decision for myself. When I find myself longing for Western luxuries, I am going to pray for my friends who are seeking opportunities in missions. I have friends in Ohio and Colorado who I know are seeking the Lord’s Will for their role in missions. May I encourage others, as well, to pray for those who are trying to find their place in missions?