Trust . . .

Do you remember that trust building game--the one that is often done at company picnics, youth group camping trips, and even at missions training events? One person stands on an elevated platform facing away from the rest of the group. He or she then falls backwards and lands safely in the arms of the group. It is supposed to be a team building activity that teaches one person to trust in the group’s ability to be there for the one person should the need arise.

What if you are the person who is supposed to fall backwards and there is no one to catch you? Or what if there are just a couple of people, but you know that they can’t support you by themselves? My guess is that you simply wouldn’t fall backwards. I know I wouldn’t.

I write this with the understanding that as missionaries, and as members of the larger body of Christ, we fall backward before the crowd shows up. It is crazy to the outside eye that we would leave guaranteed paychecks and comfort, simply trusting that the support would come when we need it. I am not just talking about financial support but spiritual and emotional support as well. I have some friends outside the faith who wonder if we have left our brains at the check-in station.

“What about retirement?”

“What about your children’s education?”

“Aren’t you worried about getting a disease?”

All of these are logical questions . . . from the ground floor perspective.

There is a wrestling match that happens between our spirit and our flesh as we climb onto the platform from which we exercise our trust. As we climb, we view life from a new perspective; we see ourselves and others differently. Most importantly, our understanding of God grows. There is a moment when we turn away from our friends and family as we face what seems like the opposite direction. This moment of decision is crucial--we really don’t know what is going to happen for sure when we fall. Will we trust?

We are learning to trust in God--deeply and completely--as He works through our network of friends, family, and His people. Yes, we still have needs. Yes, He still provides. Yes, we must continue to trust. We are grateful that you are there, like the arms of our Savior, to catch us.