by Jonny Chun/ Executive Secreatry of Tentmakers Internatiinal
Who are Tentmakers? Tentmakers are mission-committed Christians who work in secular jobs in order to reach another people group. They communicate the gospel by word and deed through excellence in work, caring relationships, and well-chosen comments about God in the context of everyday life.
In the last one and half years, the opportunities to communicate the gospel by word and deed in our communities and workplaces are almost closed. In this frustrating and stuffy environment, what are we Christian workers and leaders to do? I continually ask the same question to myself.
I was told an interesting story on a challenge many years ago. In 1983, Steve Jobs issued to John Sculley, CEO of Pepsi-Cola. “John, do you want to spend the rest of your life selling sugared water, or do you want a chance to change the world?"
This challenging question is well known to many people, and we are asked the same question from a different angle today. Our inner voice challenges us, saying, "Are you still waiting for the days that this crisis is over and come back to the normal days when we freely could serve and work for His Kingdom?"
Instead of waiting for the days, we need to prepare to take action, whatever they are. I personally felt the need to prepare more for spirituality, disciplines, and ministry skills to share the gospel effectively after this COVID crisis is over. Recently, we preach, give lectures, and hold conferences via the internet. This must be a good and effective way to communicate with others. And this will be a trend for tomorrow's Christian ministry.
What will happen to local churches and the mission world after this COVID crisis?
We still don't know what will happen to Christian missions and tentmaking ministries. But I think and believe a totally different paradigm for evangelism will be needed for local churches and foreign missions.
I hope and pray God will sustain His peace and joy in your heart. |