What does living on mission mean, both in a general sense for any person, and specifically within a Christian context? Consider aspects like purpose, values, intentionality, service, and impact on the world. How might this look differently for someone with a faith-based perspective compared to someone with a secular worldview? Are there common pitfalls or misunderstandings associated with the concept of “living on mission,” and how can they be avoided?
Answer
Living on mission, in a general sense, means orienting your life and actions around a specific purpose or calling that transcends personal comfort, desires, or immediate needs. It involves identifying a cause or set of values you believe are significant and consciously structuring your daily life, decisions, and relationships to actively promote or contribute to that purpose.
This purpose can be broad or specific, secular or spiritual. It often involves a sense of responsibility to improve the world, help others, or contribute to something larger than oneself.
Key aspects of living on mission include:
-
Purposeful Action: Consciously aligning actions, decisions, and use of resources (time, money, skills) with the identified mission. This might involve volunteering, advocating for a cause, changing careers, or making significant lifestyle adjustments.
-
Prioritization of Values: The mission acts as a filter through which decisions are made. It dictates what is important and what is less so, impacting how time and energy are allocated.
-
Long-Term Vision: Living on mission often requires a long-term perspective. The individual is willing to make sacrifices or endure challenges in the present because they believe it will contribute to a greater, more meaningful outcome in the future.
-
Commitment and Perseverance: Pursuing a mission can be difficult and may encounter obstacles. Living on mission necessitates a deep commitment to persevering through challenges and remaining dedicated to the cause.
-
Self-Reflection and Adjustment: It is important to regularly reflect on one’s actions and progress toward the mission. This involves evaluating effectiveness, identifying areas for improvement, and adjusting strategies as needed. The mission itself may even evolve over time as the individual learns and grows.
-
Impactful Living: The ultimate goal is to create a tangible and positive impact on the world, society, or the lives of others. This impact can be measured in various ways, depending on the specific mission.
- Inspiration for Others: Living on mission can inspire others to consider their own purpose and how they can contribute to something meaningful. It can foster a sense of community and shared purpose among individuals with similar values.
Examples of living on mission can include:
- An environmental activist dedicating their life to conservation and sustainable living.
- A doctor working in underserved communities to provide healthcare to those in need.
- An entrepreneur creating a business that addresses a social or environmental problem.
- A teacher fostering a love of learning and critical thinking in their students.
- An artist using their creative talents to raise awareness about social issues.
Fundamentally, living on mission is about intentionally shaping one’s life around a driving purpose that gives meaning and direction to one’s actions and contributions to the world.
Pray This Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We come before you today seeking a deeper understanding of what it means to live on mission for you. We ask for your guidance to truly grasp the essence of a life dedicated to your purpose.
Help us to see that living on mission is not just about grand gestures or faraway lands, but about the everyday choices we make to reflect your love and grace in our lives. Show us that it means being attentive to the needs of those around us, both near and far.
Help us understand that living on mission means being your hands and feet, reaching out to the lonely, the hurting, and the forgotten. It means speaking your truth with compassion and courage, even when it’s difficult. It means being a light in the darkness, offering hope and healing in a world that so desperately needs it.
Lord, help us to understand that living on mission means aligning our lives with your will, seeking to know you better through prayer, scripture, and community. It means surrendering our own agendas and desires to embrace your calling for our lives, wherever that may lead us.
Equip us, Lord, with the strength, wisdom, and love we need to live each day on mission for you. May our actions be a testament to your unwavering love and may we be faithful servants of your kingdom.
In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
0 Comments