A Creative God
Written by Joy Harrison
Over the summer, I had the opportunity to be a part of a mission trip to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with a group from Waypoint. I specifically went on this trip because I feel led to be a part of the ministries taking place in Malaysia, and I plan to return in November for one year. This trip was a way for me to meet all the people I’ll be working with when I return in a few months.
While there, we had the opportunity to meet many people serving God in many ways. One person shared their ministry of owning a business of gyms in the city and using that specific environment to foster relationships and conversations about the gospel with individuals who otherwise would be unlikely to reciprocate a discussion about God. Another person shared their experience with using their publishing company to print Christian books in languages that previously didn’t have these books translated, and to sell them at accessible prices. There were many other examples of work taking place there - college students forming relationships with non-believing peers in their classes, ethical photography as a way to reflect God’s love for every individual, teachers in international schools reaching students from all over the world, volunteers at refugee schools mentoring children that may feel forgotten or disregarded, and the list goes on. Each ministry looked different, and each person had a different story. Some had known for years that this was the path they wanted to take, and others found themselves in their various roles as a result of chaotic life events that weren’t at all planned. The one string tying them all together though - was the advancement of the gospel. In all these ministries, despite all their differences, they all maintained the same goal of sharing the life-changing love of God with people.
What an incredible testament to the authority of our God to be able to use such vastly different ministries to complete His work! God doesn’t lack in creativity - there is not a limit on what types of mediums He may choose to advance His kingdom. I also found it reassuring to not only look at the variety in ministries, but also at the variety and diversity of the people in those ministries. People from different countries, backgrounds, cultures, careers, educations, and passions, all being used by the same God. There is no strict formula for the “type” of person God uses, He doesn’t need humans to do anything, but invites us all to be a part of His work, no matter what our background may be.
It was a good challenge to me to remember that every area of my life, not just the parts that are convenient, are avenues to serve God. Sometimes I think it’s easy to box off our lives into “Christian-related” and “regular” activities, at least I know I’m sometimes guilty of doing that. But our entire lives, including our jobs, interests, hobbies, and passions, are opportunities to worship God and live out the gospel. There is no one specific way to do that. As I saw many examples in Malaysia, God can use any unique situation. The diversity of humanity reflects the ingenuity of the Creator. It was with purpose that God gave us all different gifts and interests, since all those differences allow for such a wide range of worship.
This idea of being deliberate in all areas of our lives reminds me of Paul’s words to the church in Rome: “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” Romans 12:1, ESV. We are all called to live out the gospel in all areas of our lives, in whatever creative and unique way it may look like for each of us!
If you would like to learn more about Joy's upcoming year in Malaysia and how you can support her, please e-mail harrisonjoy25@gmail.com