Discuss Theology

This week has been a slow week for both Ron and I regarding our posts due to the 20th anniversary of our mission. Ron and I are members of Youth With A Mission in Lakeside Montana and have been with the parent organization for more years than either one of us wish to count. This weekend will be a series of dinners, reminiscing, and getting caught up with returning alumni.

In preparation for the “Twentieth”, I have been preparing a religious history of our region and Youth With A Mission’s work. The historical facts have been exciting to discover and it has been a privilege to learn about early explorers and missionaries.

One thing I didn’t expect, when I began the project, was the continuity of God’s work. Somewhere along the way, in my studies, I noticed a pattern with in the Churches in our valley. I thought we, as a youth organization, were doing something truly amazing in our ministry, training, and global outreach. Yet I discovered that the Church has been doing the same work for over 175 years (the first missionaries to the valley arrived in 1838).

At first it was a little humbling. But as I thought about it, the Church has a very specific calling. It always has and it always will. What is that calling? “…make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and the Holy Ghost”. I am happy to know that there is a tradition, which can lead and inspire us. This tradition is not based upon our twenty years, but God’s redemptive history. “Disciple all nations” is a continuous work for God’s people.

Happy Birthday Youth With A Mission Montana! May God continue to bless your work as you stay true to His calling.

Steve Johnson