Missional Mondays

Many times when people picture a "missionary", a person in the depths of an African Jungle preaching to a group of Natives comes to mind. However, missions is much greater than just this picture word. Paul was considered one of the first missionaries because he traveled from place to place, culture to culture preaching the Good news.
The United States has been a hotbed for sending missionaries to foreign countries. We have the resources, the desire, and the ability. I believe we should continue to send missionaries, but thankfully many other countries are sending out missionaries including the ones that directly benefited from major missionary efforts in the past. Unfortunately, many Americans when hearing the term missions only thinks of foreign lands. There are many mission fields at home that we can participate in a major way. In many cases, foreign missions affords me the opportunity to give financially and pray. Home missions, affords me the opportunity to get right in there in the midst of the battle.
Even greater than that, is that I don't necessarily have to volunteer with local mission organizations either. (Although I highly recommend that you do). God has placed each of us in our own little corner of the world. For example in my life... I consistently run, bicyle, and walk through my neighborhood in Southport. I go to the YMCA frequently. I spend time at the church building which brings all sorts of people to me. I occassionally work part time at a tent company. All of these places give me the opportunity to be a missionary to the people around me.
A missionary is expected to learn and love the people that he/she is to reach. So, we must take the opportunity to learn more about the people around us so that we can better reach them with the Good News. Don't just think missions work is for those overseas, rather understand that you were called to be a missionary right where you are at now.