Mission: Being God’s Grace Dispenser

Among the most formative experiences of my life have been overseas, short-term mission trips. They have expanded my understanding of God’s love for the entire world, and opened my eyes to his work among the nations. As much as I would love to go on Peace’s trip to Guatemala, I am not currently in a season of life where I can easily travel and serve overseas. But as a mother to a young child, I look forward to the coming day when I can serve alongside my daughter. Even though this is not our time for overseas missions, every season of life is a season for mission.

The word “mission” has not often elicited a positive feeling for me. It makes me think of God making me do things I do not want to do. Or sometimes I think that whatever small things I might do are probably not that meaningful, anyway.

In his book Vanishing Grace, Philip Yancey, frames “mission” in a compelling way. Grace may seem in short supply in a cynical and contentious society, but Yancey identifies three types of people – pilgrims, artists, and activists – who offer a different path towards dispensing God’s grace in the world.

A pilgrim is someone who simply comes alongside people in their journeys. They recognize that we all are subject to the same pressures, failures, and temptations. A pilgrim does not stand on a pedestal and look down on others, but walks with them. Artists and activists show God’s grace through beauty and justice.

Yancey uses the term “grace dispensers.” How might we be God’s grace dispensers? It does not have to be complicated. May we find abundant opportunities to show God’s grace this holiday season.

Jill Schroeder-Dorn, D.A. , Director of Worship Arts