Missions Newsletter July 2022

Ally

Believers are commanded in Matthew 28:19-20 to make disciples of all nations, but how do we actually do so? The Lord is continually teaching me the answer to this question, and being part of a Disciple Making Group at Redeemer has been an incredible piece of my learning.

Joining alongside brothers and sisters who feel convicted and compelled to make disciples of Jesus here in Birmingham and among all nations has been joyful and it has taught me so much about laying aside selfish desires for the sake of the kingdom of God. I have more clearly seen the beauty of living life on mission and how much of a gift it is to live in Biblical community. God has gone before us to provide fruitful conversations, give new friendships with international students, deepen existing friendships, and He has reminded me through it all that we can do nothing apart from Him. I have been convicted time and time again that we who plant seeds and water them can do nothing without God providing the growth. Too often, I have put the weight of someone’s salvation on my own shoulders, but the Lord has gently reminded me that my efforts are futile apart from Him.

However, I think my favorite lesson has been learning to truly love prayer. Drawing near to our Father through prayer is such a gift, and praying corporately with other believers is humbling and beautiful and powerful. I have witnessed the members of my DMG fervently intercede for lost friends and we have been able to rejoice at answered prayers! God has taught me more than anything that He is a God who listens, who remembers our prayers, and who answers faithfully to glorify His name. Will you join us in praying that we would be faithful to plant and water seeds and that God would soften the hearts of our non-believing friends and bring them into His kingdom?