The Mission

I heard this story about a high school assembly in the ‘60s where the armed forces all went to recruit kids upon their graduation. First the Army stepped up to the podium, he said, “Join the Army, we will help you pay for college, teach you discipline and give you job skills.” Next came the recruiter for the Air Force. He said, “Join the Air Force, we will pay for college, teach you discipline, give you job skills and you can fly planes”. Next up was the Navy, he said, “Join the Navy, we will pay for college, teach you discipline, give you job skills and you can fly planes off of ships!” Finally, the Marine recruiter stepped up. He stood for a minute, he glared out at the sea of kids, making eye contact with each one. After a long, awkward silence, he finally said, “I was going to tell you that the Marines would change your life. You would hate it so badly that you would curse your mother for having you. You would be in pain from training so much, you might get shot at and some of you might get hit or even killed, but looking out at this group, I see no one who would be up to the task. It’s not a party kids, you are too weak and unprepared.” And he walked off the stage. Later it was noted that each branch had a small line, but the Marines’ line was very long. The man telling this story said that it was because most people want a Mission. They are hungry to live for something. Or even die for something that was worthwhile.

It made me think of our mission. As you leave the sanctuary there is a sign that says, “You are now entering the Mission Field”. Do we remember that every day? I am sure that I do not! Our mission is to feed the hungry, both with food and spiritual food. Helmar is an amazing church. I am new to the Mission committee, but we do support many ministries. Soon we will have the Kumla Dinner and the Silent Auction to support the Food Pantry. We have attended the Kumla dinner even before we joined Helmar. The food is good and it goes to a wonderful cause. The number of people receiving food keeps growing. The need is there. It is just ONE way that we can be active in our Mission. Visit a shut in. Pray with someone with a problem (we all have problems). Serve at a soup kitchen. Give to a homeless shelter. The list goes on.

Every year my sister chooses a word for the year. My word this year is “Mission”. I want my life to be an intentional Mission doing what I can for as long as I can…. Because God has been good to me.

Lord, give us a renewed and refreshed love to serve you. Then show us how and where to put our energy. Amen

Shirlene Peterson