This week, while in Central Asia, the team and I are spending time with many young men and others. These past 24 hours we were in Kazakhstan. There we connected with our country leader and his wife. They came to share a meal with us despite their grief over the recent death of a child. Also, we connected with a local pastor and his right-hand-guy notwithstanding their need to lead a major conference just outside their city a few hours from when we gathered. In both situations, it would have been understandable for these fellow disciples to say NO to meeting. Instead, they met with us and fully engaged in conversation about collaboration to further advance God’s kingdom. For me, to experience such personal sacrifice is rare.
We can learn from their examples. As we make disciples, we should take time for each other. We should go out of our way to show we truly care and respect each other. These days, more people are self-centered—doing only what may result in an advantage for themselves. It may not cross their minds to sacrifice for another person.
Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37-39 NIV)
Making disciples may take time and energy away from things that we desire to do for ourselves; yet, taking time for others—loving well—should be one of our highest priorities.
When was the last time you did something that was inconvenient for you, but a great blessing to another person? I encourage you to ask God for a heart of sacrifice for others. Watch lives change as you spend quality time with others even when it may be difficult for you. Sacrifice your time to disciple.
Want to learn more about disciple making? Email us at info@n20i.org.
Gary Wybenga
Network 20 Executive Director
Photo: The team crossing the Kyrgyzstan border into Kazakhstan. Eager to meet with fellow disciples there.
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