What is the cost?

What is the cost of carrying our cross? What does it mean to truly serve God? To Invisible Children Staffer Nate Henn it truly meant putting his life on the line. Though it has been a number of months since he was killed in the midst of a city bombing in Kampala, Uganda while watching the world cup on the eleventh of July this year. Though this tragedy showcases the harsh realities of the mission field in countries that are unstable, it should not serve as discouragement for those considering or deciding to go into full time missions.

            We live in a first world country where we are not persecuted for our beliefs. Many see it as danger and think because mission is a change in lifestyle. Many see that change is a terrible thing. However this can be tendency to steer away from great growth in our personal walks. In James 1:2-3 James says, “ Count it all joy my Brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete lacking in nothing.” Though this is a famous passage, many forget that we as Christians a asked to live by it day to day.

            As citizens of a first world country where all beliefs are tolerated, we tend to find stories like this completely shocking and scary. However, the article starts with a statement ‘After losing one of its own, the non-prophet stays committed to fighting terror with compassion’. It is incredible that they still persevere. They knew they were going to face trials starting up this organization. They saw the persecution. Their mission is based on saving and bring awareness to the children who are usually kidnapped to fight for the war occurring in Uganda. They also are bringing awareness that the war has been going on for ages as well as being neglected almost all stable countries.

            Though Nate Henn was not on the job during the moment of his death. It was proof upon how no matter where you go in a country that unstable, the threat is everywhere. He knew the risks of entering the country. He also knew that following God fully was not a safe game. Just like how James said, he and the rest of the organization have lived that passage of scripture. As a servant, we will not be loved by everyone. Taking our cross as follower is a similar portrait to that of seeing Christ walking the hill holding a cross and being whipped simultaneously. However, after we go through our trials the rewards of growth are incomparable.

            The fascinating thing about serving God in the field is that we never know what we are up against. We must live each day like it is our last. We must not just think that we will finish it tomorrow. Tomorrow may never come. Every moment as a disciple could be used as an opportunity for mending changing our outlook for the better. 

Becoming an Effective Musician

Music has always been a huge part of my life. From the first time I heard an electric guitar as an infant, I knew I wanted to be a musician. Finally at the age of 12, my parents finally said that they would pay for guitar lessons for me. I was excited. Although I picked up the guitar because it sounded like it would be fun, I was in for one of the longest runs of self-discipline in my life. Sure there will be enjoyment to follow after the work is said and done. But the best things are to be experienced after a series of patience induced trials.

            When it come to playing any musical instrument, many have said, “I’ve tried it out once, but it was too hard.” This can be one of the most sadly common statements in our culture. We do not understand that working hard towards something can make almost any goal achievable. Persistence of hard work is slowly becoming a lost art form. Though, if you do apply yourself, you are able to learn to be the best musician and can accomplish almost anything.

            Time is something one must sacrifice when learning to play an instrument. I have spent many weekends in my room just sitting down practicing a guitar chord progression with a metronome. Sure I sacrificed many opportunities to hang out with friends, but it was and is still very important to invest much time into a passion and not just put it off till later. Usually when one says that they will get a project done later, it is never really finished.

            When it comes to learning any instrument, playing the song right alone in your bedroom is only half of the art. Performance is the other half. Sometimes you may face some of the most uncomfortable times ever when you start performing live for the first time. I have had my fair share of embarrassing events. I have messed up performance of songs for many reasons including playing in the wrong key or time signature. But due to some of those faults I have not failed, but learned about what not to do for those situations. Performing live is a system that is meant to build confidence as well as precise musicianship. We live in a visual culture. Recording an album alone does not get the job done. Performing a live energetic show helps a band maintain and gain fans. The band requires the energy of every performer to maintain the high level of stage presence.

            Sure there are many penalties for learning to become skilled at anything in music. However, becoming good at anything in this world requires great sacrifice and determination to become good. Similar to our walk with God, we must be willing to face the trials and challenges that face our way when learning to be good at any instrument. We must learn to be persistent and patient. Giving up is far too easy to do in this world. It is never too late to ever start a real challenge.