Go: A 40-Day Journey To The Never ReachedSample

Leaving Family Anyway 

By: Missy Towers

Imagine being told you would be crucified soon after watching Christ’s crucifixion. The Greek word used here for “to go” is phero. The word used to describe Jesus’ going to Calvary. A word associated directly with crucifixion. Peter was going to the cross. 

Taking up our cross encompasses all of our being—everything we are, we know and hold dear. Some will make the ultimate sacrifice. Counting our costs is more than just the silly, material things that clutter our homes or even meaningful relationships. 

The sacrifice that challenges me most is relationships. Initially, we said, “We’re young. We don’t have children. Let’s go on this adventure with God.” Two years later, the cute shoes in my suitcase gave way to items for my baby boy.

God’s call for my life, pushes me toward the lost. My heart resists, insisting that taking my child far from his grandparents is a horrible idea. Frankly, it makes me not want to go at all.

Missionaries don’t always want to go, but they go anyway. It’s easier when we remember that our most important relationship is with Jesus. We don’t want to hurt family and friends, but we certainly don’t want to disappoint Jesus. Therefore, we go soberly, knowing the full weight of our decision. 

Christ recoiled from the cup. Yet, he knew the Father’s will. The sacrifice required brought reluctance. Jesus pleaded, “Father…please take this cup of suffering from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine” (Luke 22:42 NLT).

Redeeming mankind required Jesus’ death. He knew the agonizing torture he would endure, yet he still went to the cross. Should I be less willing? I am, but I go anyway. 

Reluctance is okay as long as we go anyway. It means we’ve counted the costs. My human heart tells me not to go. But because of what God has done, I go anyway.”

Go Anyway

Listen to (or read the lyrics) of Keith Green’s song, “Pledge my Head to Heaven.” Come to terms with the sacrifices any believer might be called upon to make for the gospel through prayer. Then write your own pledge.

Pray for Never Reached People Group: Indonesia’s Kepulauan Sula

Ask God to send more workers so that no Kepulauan Sula man, woman, or child will remain never reached by the gospel.