Since we are a mission school, the topic of mission naturally comes up again and again. In our new classroom, a huge world map hangs on the wall. It gives vision and always awakens dreams in us to proclaim the gospel to the ends of the earth.
But what exactly was the last thing Jesus told his disciples before he was lifted up right before their eyes and went back to his Father in heaven?
Acts 1:8
You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere - in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
Yes, to the ends of the earth, that's right! But the disciples should start in Jerusalem, their home. Then in all Judea and Samaria, the surrounding area.
Of course, what Jesus told the disciples also applies to us at the Revival School. "Mission" must begin at home. Both to set things straight and to tell about God's miracles. That's why we intentionally schedule “Family-Home-Weekends" into our annual schedule. Here are two testimonies from our students:
Heart Healing
Actually, I didn't want to go home during the “Family-Home-Weekend", but then I felt that God wanted to take the chance to heal a deep childhood wound in me.
"Better not confront my parents," was my motto, for fear of their reaction. I wondered if they would understand me?
Without taking the initiative myself, our conversations automatically went in that direction. Quite amazed that my parents also had revelation about this incident, we were able to bring this story before Jesus: Letting go of the old and receiving forgiveness! The “Family-Home-Weekend" opened the door for Jesus to heal old wounds and for an understanding to grow on both sides that will help us walk together with God into the future.
Practical servanthood
While visiting the place I lived before, I also went to the community garden. Immediately I noticed the tall lawn. That's when the Holy Spirit reminded me of the teaching for the “Family-Home-Weekend": That we are to go home primarily not as evangelists, but as servants. So I mowed the lawn.
Through this situation, the Holy Spirit showed me what practical servanthood is, and the 73 year old lady learned at the same time how God provides her with practical help, because since the death of her husband, she takes care of the house alone, trusting in God.
Yes, it is experiences like this that make us ready to travel "to the ends of the earth" during our international school outreaches this summer!
We are looking forward to it and are excited to see how the Holy Spirit will lead us!