Full Blast

I came across an interesting passage today in Acts 20. In this passage the apostle Paul is talking to the leaders in the church at Ephesus. He makes a very interesting statement:

"And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me." (Acts 20:22-23)

Most would say that Paul is insane for going ahead with this plan of travelling to Jerusalem. After all, who in their right mind would willingly go somewhere that they are guaranteed problems? Surely Paul is going to back out and stay where it is safe! But wait, Paul is not finished, he continues in verse 24:

"But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God."

When I first read that I was amazed at Paul's endurance, faithfulness, boldness, and steadfastness. He was not willing to allow persecution to stop him from taking the message of God's amazing grace to the lost. He did not consider safety of his physical body to be more important than the salvation of lost souls who were on their way to hell. He knew his life was short and he wanted to finish strong for God, not wavering or wimping out. Unreservedly he gave his all to the One who had given His all on Calvary.

Sadly, I am afraid that out of a simple fear of people we fail to remember that we have been called to a ministry of telling others about Christ's gracious and free gift. Often the thought of going to someone we do not know (and especially those we do know) terrifies us. We are afraid of what they will think, or how they will react. We want to be on their good side, and we definitely do NOT want them to think we are some sort of religious freak.

But Paul, KNEW he was going to be persecuted much more than we will ever be in America, and still he went, counting his life as nothing in comparison to the spiritual darkness of the lives of those to whom he was to minister. How much better it would be if we would truly count the cost of serving Christ, taking out the stops, and going full blast for Him.

Classes as usual today. Thankfully I didn't have any tests or quizzes!! YAY!! I guess it makes up for yesterday! I actually enjoyed my classes today and got stuff out of them. First thing this morning was Christian Home. I learned that there is going to be a test next Thursday in that class!! AAAAHHHHH!! Actually it shouldn't be that hard, Bro. Barnes gave us what we needed to go over, and if I study, I'll be fine. I also had Christian Womanhood today. It is a really interesting class, it covers a lot of basic stuff for young women. Today was mainly about running a household. Tips on organization, and cleaning schedules, etc. Intro to Missions was my final class of the day. I think it is going to be one of my favorite classes this semester. The topic today was on Sending missionaries. It was really interesting. Dr. Grimbilas really loves missions, so as a result it makes for a very interesting class.
The beginning of this semester 6 men from this church went to India on a missions trip. They got back last Thursday. Tonight they did a video presentation, and each of those men gave a short testimony. Then Pastor preached from Mark 16:15. It was a really good service. I learned a lot.
Tomorrow we are leaving at 6:30 in the morning to head to Connecticut and New England Baptist College. It is time for our basketball team to get their revenge!! We will beat them! GOOOOOO IBCo!!!
Following the game grandpa and I will drive directly to Queens, catch the train to Manhattan, and then take the subway to 57th St. and 7th Ave. CARNEGIE HALL!!! I'm sooooo excited, I can't wait! :)