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I sent you to Africa for My sake.

July 19, 2015
by Steve and Jamie Ross

“I didn’t send you to Africa for the sake of the heathen; I sent you to Africa for my sake.”

Hearing that quote was totally different last week. 10 Shekkels and a Shirt is one of those timeless messages that has a way of riveting your soul with fresh impact each time you hear it. It was this sermon by Paris Reidhead that the Lord used in '09 to inspire me to start praying the prayer I've repeated countless times since; "Lord the answer is already yes.. just tell me what/where/when and get glory for yourself."

Years ago I came to the realization that God does not need me; He doesn't need my skills, He doesn't need my charisma, He doesn't even need my worship. Yet He chooses to use me for His glory. As I prepare to leave for Zambia tomorrow I'm humbled and convicted by this. Daily I fall short, rarely do I fully exercise the privilege I have to be in His service and all too often my heart is exposed as seeking its own glory.


In addition to my shortcomings I'm naturally unfit. This is true of all who understand their place in God's plan. Even where it's not understood it stands true. Paul writing to the Corinthians states plainly that "..not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God." - 1 Corinthians 1:26-29  I don't have a bunch of letters behind my name or even a list of ministerial credentials. I wasn't born into prestige or influence, I was raised by a single mother and grandmother in Lynwood and Watts. But God chose foolish, weak, low and despised me for the sake of His name and spread of His fame.

I'm not a hero. It's not even about me. After all is said and done I was just an unworthy servant who did his duty (Luke 17:10). Going back to Africa for the sake of the gospel is the least I can do.

We're grateful for all the prayers and support. This is an undertaking that is truly too wonderful for us. On behalf of Jamie and the kids I say thank you and please keep asking the Lord to cross the t's.

