Mission is not a word I relate to, or want to relate to particularly. It's reasonably easy to ignore it until you go and read something like this:

"You were made for a mission. God is at work in this world, and He wants you to join Him." Rick Warren The Purpose Driven Life.

Bummer. I've had this conversation with God. How can I be on mission? I work from home, my kids go to a Christian school, my friends are all Christians ... and I am absolutely hopeless at the cold turkey conversation. OK, I'll be more honest. I hate the cold turkey conversation. I could probably do it if I tried but I don't want to.

But we are all missionaries. From the moment you accepted Christ you're on mission. You've got the good news and God wants you to share it, to join Him in His work. You're to encourage other believers, and you're to share with unbelievers too. What does that mean for 'ordinary' people like me? My husband is great at the cold turkey conversation. I love watching him. He makes it look so easy and natural and in 5 minutes they're talking about church, or even God! When I try to do it it's so awkward, at least that's how I feel. So what does God require of me?

I was thinking about what a missionary actually does. They feel called to a place so they move there to live with the purpose of sharing their faith. They get involved in the lifestyle and culture, they get to know the local people. They identify needs and meet them and this opens doors to share Christ. But they go with the purpose of serving the community and identifying Christ. They are not there to amass wealth or build their own house. They are there for other people. They do what they can to serve with the skills God has given them, and they take every opportunity to share their faith. They come in with their faith on their sleeve. Wasn't that what Jesus did? He healed the sick, talked to the broken-hearted, and was completely clear about who He was. He answered every question honestly, and didn't attempt to hide.

For me this makes it clear, and cuts away the stereotypes. The place God has called me to is the place where I live. I have a house and a family but my life is not my focus. I am looking outward. My own personal wealth and career goals do not consume me. I think about God and what He requires. I know my skills and I choose to use them for Him. I am on mission every day. I know this place and its people. In fact I've grown up here. Who better to know and serve into their needs? I am on the look out for opportunities and I clearly say "I am Christ's".

This verse best sums it up for me:

"Do not fear what they fear, do not be frightened. But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." 1 Peter 3:14,15.

Therefore in my day to day life, in the place where God has put me, I am to live as a Christian, without the world's fears. Christ is to be number 1 in my heart and I am to speak clearly, gently, and respectfully about my faith whenever an opportunity presents itself.

I think I can do that, without starting conversations with strangers. May God provide the opportunities and keep my heart in line with His.