Mission News: A Letter From Dad to His Kids

by Dr. Dick Bransford

If whatever you are doing isn't worth living for, it isn't worth dying for! Many want something with principle and purpose, something "worth dying for." Yet, the baubles of our culture often fill life with things that are not worth dying for. TV, video games and other entertainment are the narcotic for many of today's scene. I would like to say this was only "in the world," but I fear it has also taken over much of life for the soundly saved. We are busy, but often not satisfied. We are doing good things, but this does not translate into impacting day-to-day life in a positive way.

When I grow a bit weary at refugee camps in Africa, I lean over and look into the faces of the many malnourished little ones, reminding me of why I am there. There is the purely compassionate element, but there is also the element of being Jesus to people. Recently, at Dadaab in Sudan, seeing patients overshadowed the message of Christ. I had spent hours preparing talks to give to the community rehab workers, but being overwhelmed with patients, there was no teaching. My conclusion? This is Africa. I am not there for the convenience. I must be "Jesus" in all that I am, representing him in the midst of such disorder. I must have His grace, His compassion and His love to do what He wants me to do.

Meanwhile, the funds for providing for refugees ran out a few months ago. We have not stopped caring for them. I think the Lord wants Mom and me to be confronted with the possibility of using our savings if that becomes necessary. The bills have continued to pile up. I received a glimmer of hope in a recent phone call with the offer of some help. In reality, would I be prepared to spend all that I have for the task He has placed before me? I believe I would.

Yesterday, a person attired in a usual Muslim outfit from head to toe came up to me with smiling eyes. I remembered the 15-year old whom I thought before surgery would never smile again. Jesus? Not yet. Will I ever see the fruit? Maybe I am just the digger, the waterer or the planter. I would love to see a great reaping for the Kingdom, but that may not be my privilege.

Thanks for bearing with me, kids. I think you are great.

I love you. Dad