Lezlie Calloway went to India on a mission trip with E3. Before today I had never heard of her. After today, I think I’ll never forget what I heard.
I attended her home church in Liscomb Iowa to hear her speak about her mission trip. I expected I’d hear about the Indian culture, how the people lived, what kind of architecture they had. Boy was I surprised.
Lezlie went on a mission trip where those who went evangelized. They didn’t build new homes, or dig toilets, or repair anything. They went with the express purpose of sharing the story of Jesus Christ and making disciples.
When I heard that in church, my first thought was “I could never do that. ” I also thought, what if I got sick? What if they laughed at me or mocked me? What if no one listened? I got nervous for her when she started talking. I couldn’t believe they could go and evangelize and not sound silly, or embarrassing.
Lezlie shared how they talked about Jesus and the Good News. She shared the joy of telling the stories of Jesus to people who had never heard them before. Lezlie shared her life with these people – and she made a difference in my life.
There were several great points, wonderful stories and funny things that happened. But one thing Lezlie said has stuck in my mind. I’ll paraphrase it for you.
Often we say “I’m too sick” or “I’m too stupid” or “I can’t do that because ________(fill in the blank).” God doesn’t hear your excuses. He only hears “I can’t do that because I’m unwilling.”
Where else in my life am I unwilling? Am I using excuses thinking that will work — or am I just unwilling?
Very touching and even more challenging. Thanks for sharing. Sometimes I get to comfortable.
Thanks Judy – I know exactly what you mean!
Good stuff..thanks for sharing this. I was with Lezlie in Aurangabad and we were actually on the same evangelism team. We had a great time evangelizing that small village named Chincholi. Mant people there were open to The Gospel (mostly hindus and some muslims). I was blessed to work side by side with Lezlie and our translators Amol Gaikwad and Pastor Mankar. I know The Lord stretched me and I’m sure He did her too. It’s such a great blessing to be used by God and to see His Spirit move in such a beautiful way. I encourage all to go on foreign missions trips, as The Lord opens the doors to do so. I left with a brokenness for India and look forward to going back. And as far as getting sick, I didn’t get one immunization before I went. I trusted The Lord, stepped out in faith and He protected me 🙂 Glory to The King…
Thanks for sharing a little more Eric – it was great to hear what you guys did.