Heart for the Lost

This is a pretty intense week for me as I take my last course at DTS (at least, for now). This course is on Soteriology (the study of the doctrine of salvation). It may (or may not) be obvious to you, but this is a topic that is very near and dear to my heart (which can give me ideas for a whole set of postings that could last the whole year).

One passage that we covered in class is from Romans 9:1-5...

I am telling the truth in Christ (I am not lying!), for my conscience assures me in the Holy Spirit - I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed - cut off from Christ - for the sake of my people, my fellow countrymen, who are Israelites. To them belong the adoption as sons, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the temple worship, and the promises. To them belong the patriarchs, and from them, by human descent, came the Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever! Amen.

My home church (Biblical Community Church in Richardson) is mobilizing its first short-term missions team ever. This team is made up of a family of four, a married couple, a single lady, and me--all going to Honduras on June 27 - July 6. At some point, the team decided to name itself "Team Heart for Honduras". I appreciate this name because I originally called it "Team Honduras", but the team eventually wanted to emphasize the "Heart" aspect of our short-term missions opportunity.

Today, I was reminded once again of why "heart" is important. Look at what Paul is saying above in Romans 9:1-5. Look at Paul's heart. This is a man of great COMPASSION! He wishes that he could be sent to hell in order to save others. Paul has told us in other passages to imitate him.

QUESTION: In missions (and in life), am I (and are you) willing to be cut off from Christ for the sake of the lost?

"The manner of God's work on the soul, sometimes especially, is very mysterious; and it is with the kingdom of God as to its manifestation in the heart of a convert."