When I first heard the Lord’s calling to become a missionary to Japan, I did not feel confident in following his calling to serve in this place or in this way.
I wrote to my pastor, and he encouraged me to prayerfully push on the doors ahead as, in his experience, the issue of guidance is usually quite simple, but problems often come when we see the Lord’s way, but we don’t wish to walk in it.
Last month, I read the Christmas account at the beginning of Luke’s Gospel. The angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and told her what would happen. The Lord’s way ahead for Mary looked difficult and fearful. Perhaps Mary would not wish to walk in it and would seek another path?
There have been times that I have earnestly looked for another path to follow, wrestling with questions or doubts about the effects of this calling on my life and my family. Should I return to the career I originally trained for? Could I serve in my home country?
Gabriel did not leave Mary with that option. He said that she would conceive a son, she should call his name Jesus, and there will be no end to his kingdom.
I have also sometimes found myself grieving the worldly opportunities that I have lost as the Lord has called me into his mission in Japan. I have even felt anger and resentment towards the Lord, focusing on mundane things I have lost over the joy gained in serving him.
But Mary’s response is not one of reluctance or resentment. She did not seek another path, nor hesitate to follow the Lord’s calling. Rather she clearly and obediently submitted saying, “I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38 ESV).
I am grateful that, in my best moments, the Lord has enabled me to echo Mary’s obedience and submit to the Lord’s guidance. It is in these moments that I understand the advice given to me by my pastor at the beginning of this journey. The Lord’s guidance is indeed quite simple. It is not easy to follow, but much of the heartache and challenge is lifted when I obediently allow him to lead me along the way he has prepared.
By an OMF missionary
