An old missionary
couple were coming back from Africa for the last time.
They had spent the
majority of their lives on the dark continent, and had given sacrificially to
see souls won and hungry stomachs fed. Of course, they had mixed emotions as
the ocean liner entered New York Harbor.
It just so happened
that President Teddy Roosevelt was traveling on that same ship, in the first
class section. He had just finished an African safari, and had “bagged” several
types of game. Thousands lined the docks to greet the hero of San Juan.
Henry and Harriet,
our missionary heroes, were astounded to see so many ardent admirers of the
President, and were reflecting on their many years of missionary service.
Henry began to
feel a little sorry for himself, and said:
“Harriet, here we
spent almost fifty years in Africa, and when we come
home, there’s no one to greet us. President Roosevelt spends
two weeks
there, and thousands line the docks. I would think someone
would welcome
us home.”
Harriet gazed over
the cheering crowd, and wisely replied:
“Oh, but Henry…
we’re not HOME yet!”
I think that God
puts a priority on our willingness to fulfill our singular missions on earth,
and the commitment and effort we give to His plans for us. There are The
Notables. Who can detract from the wonderful works of Billy Graham and Mother
Teresa?
But I’m convinced
that our rewards will be based on our whole-hearted desire, and subsequent
efforts to fulfill his plans. God does not judge as a man judges. We will all
stand on an equal footing beneath The Throne of God.
We may even be
surprised when God hands out rewards. There may be obscure individuals, who
hardly had a name in their own community, that will hear God’s “Well Done” and
reap vast rewards.
We needn’t be too
concerned about men’s praise or attention on this side of heaven. We needn’t
compare ourselves to those who have Names here. God is faithful to record every
tear, every good work, every glass of water given in His name.
No children, we’re
not home yet.
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