I have always been intrigued by the story in the Bible about four starving lepers who, while fleeing a military siege of ancient war-torn Samaria, discovered the recently vacated camp of the enemy along with treasures, provisions and plenty of food and supplies to more than meet their needs.
The Bible tells us that instead of enjoying the food and keeping the spoils for themselves, these beggars decided to share their plunder with all who lived in the city; thus saving its residents from certain death and starvation.
The Story convicts me that even the poor and disenfranchised are not exempt from the command to love your neighbor as yourself. We are all called, as Christians to be "good Samaratins", wherever we are.
In fact, in many ways, these messengers of grace were the "home grown" missionaries of their day sharing the Good News of their discovery of food and supplies with their neighbors and leading them to find help in a time of need.
The articles on ywamorganic remind me of this story. They feature men and women who are placed by God in neighborhoods around the world to help when disaster strikes or children are left as orphans or famine leaves people hungry and discouraged. They are bringing Good News to their neighborhoods, wherever God has put them.
As an example, we were amazed as we read the incredible account of the "first responders" to the devastating earthquake that took place in Haiti in January of 2010. This is a wonderful story of dedication and ingenuity by the people; both missionaries and by-standers, who helped out wherever and whenever it was needed. They worked together to restore and then re-build and develop healthy and vibrant Christian community in the aftermath of the quake.
We were also inspired by the story of the YWAM team in Baja, San Diego who are helping people to help themselves through their ministry of building Homes of Hope. And we were touched by the story about the ministry of Home of Joy in Thailand which has been established for the sole purpose of rescuing and raising orphans there.
These stories and many others truly encourage me to be passionately aware of the dire circumstances of so many around the globe. As a result, I do contribute to this ministry which does such a great job of getting the word out to all of you about the many opportunities available to "Pray, Give and Go" around the globe through YWAM.
As a former YWAM short term missionary in my senior years, I am no longer traveling much. But I am opening my eyes to the needs and opportunities in my own neighborhood so that in some small way, I can be Good News wherever I am placed by God.
About the Author
Anne Scott met the Lord at the age of 41 following a horrific auto accident that nearly claimed her life. Six months later she joined YWAM in Hollywood CA. serving in a homeless youth ministry. Anne worked in discipleship houses, helped to start and manage a Thrift Store and found a true calling to prayer.
Later God called her back to the marketplace to work in the fashion business as a retail store designer which gave her many opportunities to witness to the co-workers whom she met along the way.
Anne's previous YWAM training as an inner city missionary prepared her as she traveled to many cities during her career. God's concern for people and the cities were always on her heart as she prayer-walked and interceded wherever she visited. She has served as a volunteer prayer leader and organizer as well leading and teaching teams in strategic intercession for city and national initiatives. She has learned that wherever God places her is a personal mission field as a servant of Christ and as an influencer for His Kingdom.
Recently retired, Anne and others in her community of faith are exploring creative ideas about serving Christ in their neighborhoods of influence making a daily difference in lives that need to "see" Jesus in these very difficult times. Their hope is to be "Good News" wherever they are.
