If this past week has gone “according to plan,” then I’ve been to the other side of the planet and back since we last worshiped in the same room. Our world is getting smaller every day! I spoke several times last week on the topic “The Glory of the Impossible” to the field and home staff of Mission to Unreached Peoples. Meeting in Chiang Mai, Thailand, for the organization’s Worldwide Conference, which occurs every third year, these frontline missionaries gathered to pray, to seek God’s face, to plan, to be equipped, and to be encouraged. Isn’t that what we get to do each Sunday as we gather for worship and Bible study? Imagine being separated by miles and languages and cultures from other believers as a matter of routine—and then getting the opportunity for fellowship and inspiration. That has been our prayer for the week. Our FBC team of seven served by ministering to the children of these missionary families in a hybrid day camp/Vacation Bible School format. God used them powerfully!

In preparing for this special assignment, I wanted to represent the Lord and our church appropriately. One thought continued to intrude upon my study and prayer—over and over again. That thought was a promise I made many years ago captured in these lines:

I will do my best
To become a well-informed, responsible follower of Christ;
To have a Christ-like concern for all people;
To learn how to carry the message of Christ around the world;
To work with others in sharing Christ;
And to keep myself clean and healthy in mind and body.

I was probably seven years old when I first voiced the “Royal Ambassador pledge.” Looking back, I haven’t always kept it as I should—but it has been a constant point of reference in my life.

An ambassador represents the authority that sends him—goes where he is sent and speaks the message he is given.

We serve the King of Kingdom come! May His will be done in us.

I’m proud to be your pastor,

Jerry