I am Redeemed

Yesterday, Ruco and I had lunch with a South African in our office who has translated the Jesus film in countless languages, made the audio version of the Jesus Film for radio (after he realized this need through a blind friend,) and he has also come up with the idea of the latest "Magdalena: Released From Shame."The Magdalena Film is just amazing in what it portrays to women. The mission of the film is to illustrate to oppressed women in countries where they are not valued, that they are more precious to Jesus than they could ever realize. The film has had an overwhelming response, with women lining up to see the film in countries which were previously closed to any type of ministry outreach. Women in the countries we serve have never seen anything like it. It is truly amazing what God has done and continues to do through the film.

The purpose of the lunch was to discuss mine and Ruco's future plans and where we might serve in ministry for our future. One thing that we talked about is God's timing, and that he creates a season for everything under the sun (Ecclesiastes 3:1.) Although we would love to be in full-time ministry right now, especially working with Life Agape/Campus Crusade on projects such as the Magdalena film, we can see that the season has not come and that we have to wait on God's perfect timing. Despite this, we also realize that we are constantly missionaries throughout our lives-"tentmakers" like Paul!!

We are called to share the gospel of Christ because it has really changed our lives. Ruco and I are truly redeemed for what God has done with our lives. He shows me each and everyday that I am more precious to Him than I can ever imagine. I know full well that I can sit and rest safe in His arms no matter what storms come in my life. I will never comprehend the love He has for me. He has truly redeemed me and shielded me from so much. I am secure for who I am in Him.

Sometimes I think of where I would be if I didn't have Christ. If I am truly honest with myself, Im not quite sure. Growing up, I think I could have easily believed the lies that the women in the Middle East/Northern Africa/Central Asia/and all over the world believe. I think I would believe that I am not valued or truly loved. I think with the situations that were created in my life, it would have been so easy for me to be angry and not forgive freely the way God has allowed for me to do. I also don’t know WHERE I would be, and where I would place emphasis in my life. I think I would be much more focused on what I am DOING. I am not sure if it would be in the way of making money or in the way of status. I just think I would be much more focused on myself (which is so easy to do even now with my sinful nature.) I just know that my heart would be different, that I would be different.

What I do realize is that I am redeemed! I am so thankful for my grandmother praying with me as a little girl and showing me my true worth. There is really no better gift to give. That is why I think the Magdalena Film really is so amazing...it is the gift of showing women their true value and worth-it is showing them the amazing love Christ has for them. I dont know where I would be without this love in my life, and without His redemption.