From Distance to Doorstep
OPENING PRAYER:
Father God, open our eyes to see the mission field right before us. Help us recognize that sometimes the greatest impact happens closest to home.
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
This verse outlines Jesus' mission strategy, beginning with our immediate vicinity and expanding outward.
Acts 1:8 (NIV)
REFLECT:
Bill's powerful observation in the message that "it's impossible to make a difference in the life of someone in need from a distance" challenges our typical approach to ministry. While we often think of missions as something that happens overseas, he revealed foster care as "the invisible mission field that's all around us."
The message highlighted how Sedgwick County's disproportionate number of foster children - 1,500 out of Kansas's 6,000 - represents an urgent local mission field. As Alicia pointed out, these numbers "don't make sense" for our community size, indicating a crisis that demands our attention.
This reality transforms our understanding of mission work. Rather than requiring a passport or plane ticket, this mission field comes right to our front door. It's a profound shift in perspective - instead of us going to the mission field, God is bringing the mission field to us, offering daily opportunities to demonstrate His love to vulnerable children and families.
I WILL STATEMENT:
"I will defend and care for the vulnerable with my time and resources." Pathway partners with so many organizations in our community that could be blessed by you. If you would like to find out how to help meet the needs of those in crisis, visit the Foster Care Awareness website (pathwaychurch.com/fostercare) or you can find it in the Pathway App.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Father, thank You for bringing the mission field to our doorstep. Give us courage to step into the opportunities You've placed right before us.