by Jill Lienemann, Kesher International Missions | ©2011
As the semi-truck navigates into my lane, I quickly calculate that it isn’t going to clear the front bumper of my car. Following through on my first reaction, I swiftly place my foot on the brake pedal and yield to avoid a collision. According to Merriam-Webster’s dictionary, “yield” means “to relinquish one’s possession of – as a position of advantage or point of superiority.” Though I did not have the largest vehicle in this situation, I did have the right of way which I willingly relinquished in order to prevent physical harm.
Everything may seem to be business as usual when you are traveling along on your mission trip until an intrusion veers into your path. The interruption may appear to be a hazardous driver, but in reality it is a strategically placed object lesson that jolts you to see from a different perspective and compels you to react accordingly. God wants to use this and similar opportunities to transform you into Christ’s image (2 Corinthians 3:18). He will ask you to voluntarily surrender, or yield, your will in the circumstance for a favorable outcome for everyone.
Over the next several trip devotions, we will highlight some of the impositions found on a mission trip and explore how God reveals Himself through them. “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”(2 Peter 3:18a KJV)
KESHER PRAYER (connection): Dear God, thank you for placing me in a position away from the distractions of my life to be sensitive to your leading. Please give me eyes to see You in the midst of today’s intrusion(s) (Mark 4:12). I want to increase in Your grace and extend even more love for others as I learn to yield my will to Yours (Luke 22:42). Amen.
