I wonder what Paul would have done if he preached the Gospel in the 21st century. Would he have kept in touch with Corinthians or Galatians via Facebook or Skype? Would he have flown from place to place visiting on a yearly basis? Would he have written newsletters or sent our mass letters?
I really don't know, but tonight I feel a little like Paul. Each time I stay in contact with a brother or sister in Sierra Leone or Detroit, I pray that I can be like Paul encouraging those living out the faith. Running the race and living life each day. Those who I lived, worked, laughed, cried, and prayed with journeying together side by side. I'm grateful that our bond lasts beyond a few weeks I spent in Salone or the 14 months in Detroit. Rather life long relationship has been built, and I am charged to keep lifting them up in prayer. "I give thanks to my God at very remembrance of you, praying always with joy in my every prayer for all of you, because of your partnership for the Gospel from the first day until now." -Philippians 1.3-5.
Tonight, one woman in Detroit was on my heart. I recently was given her phone number, so I decided to give her a quick call. After several rings (I almost hung up) she answered and we chatted for a few minutes. She told me how everything was going well and gave me a quick update about moving back to the neighborhood she grew up in. She also told me about the grades her son was giving including several A's. I told her briefly about what I was doing, and she was amazed by how beautiful Ireland must be. I promised to send her a few pictures. Before we hung up, I asked her if I could pray. I'm amazed by how God can transcend time, places, cultures, backgrounds, and race. God is so good.
It was so good to talk with Aunty Button for a few minutes, to encourage, and love her even from a far. I don't know what Paul would do in the 21st century, but I pray that I can continue encouraging those I journey alongside not only for a season but a lifetime. May I not be afraid to carry other's loads, but rather lead them to the King who carried all of our loads onto the cross and set us free. May I live in that freedom and encourage others to do the same.
