There is a principle at work in the Scriptures: what you do for others will reflect back to you.
Jesus Himself said, “‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me’” (Matthew 25:40).
This places a lot of weight and importance on the deeds of the Christian. When we do something good - or refrain from doing it - there will be results or consequences.
So when Paul describes how we should interact with others who are suffering or in need, we see this principle at play again.
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For each one shall bear his own load. Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches. Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith” (Galatians 2:6-10).
The Orange Letter Campaign presents a unique opportunity for us. We have the ability to connect with a missionary who is experiencing trials for the sake of the gospel, and perhaps as we set our own shoulders to the burdens they bear, we will reap a harvest in our own lives.
The burden of loneliness
The life of a missionary is already a lonely life. Far away from friends and family, oftentimes in a foreign country with an unfamiliar culture, loneliness is just part of the package. But this year, it is even more so. COVID-19 has sent the entire world into a panic, and different governments around the world are reacting in different ways, some more extreme than others. Some countries aren’t allowing people outside of their homes for more than an hour. Some not at all. Caught in such an environment, we can see how extreme loneliness could affect missionaries.
As you write your Orange Letter, remember that you are breaking through that loneliness and reminding the missionary that they are not alone. Doing this will remind you that you are a member of a family united by the love of Christ.
The burden of discouragement
Imagine being a missionary in lock-down. You’ve left everything behind - family, friends, your language and culture - to preach the gospel to people who may have never heard of Jesus in their lives. And now you are stuck in quarantine or lock-down, with very restricted access or no access at all to the very people you came to reach. How useless might you feel?
Writing your letter, remember the burden of discouragement. Remind the missionary that God has a purpose for their situation, as fruitless as it may seem, and encourage them to continue walking in obedience. Doing this will remind you that God is sovereign over the situations in your own life, and you can trust Him.
Writing your letter may seem a simple thing to you, but to the missionary who reads it, it could be the difference between hope and despair. Don’t take it lightly! Pray over the words and write as God moves your heart. You can send your letter to [email protected]. This letter will be sent to missionaries all around the world. Keep your letter short, about 150 words at the longest, but be sure to include encouragement and prayer. For more information on how to write your letter, read here.
