I'm Not Called to do That?

One of the most common comments I hear whenever I bring up the subject of missions work is "I think it's great that there are people that do 'that'; but I don't feel I'm called to do 'that' kind of thing" ... Or, "I don't see why you (or others) feel the need to go 'over-there' when we have starving people right here in the USA" ...etc.

Being relatively new to missions work 'over-there' but not 'over-here', I find Radical to be a wonderful resource of encouragement for me as I search for more spiritual growth that will provide me courage to seek other opportunities to do my part in making 'disciples of all nations'. Radical provides biblical answers to these type of comments and questions regarding the all-too-common notion that "I'm not called" to do that.

Radical's overall theme isn't just about overseas mission work. It's about taking a good look at what we have as a result of our chasing the 'American Dream' and presents a challenging opportunity to see how much excess gained in the pursuit of our version of American happiness we can let go of. A challenge with biblical support to give away ourselves and our margins of excess to others that need Christ in their lives, whether at home, down the street, in another state and/or in another country.

Radical does not attempt to bash the rich blessings we enjoy here in America, nor does it seek to wrongfully teach that by our efforts and sacrifices alone, we will please God and be saved. Platt wisely diffuses these thoughts along the way as his book unfolds while still maintaining the integrity of his biblical-based theme.

Page 73 really stood out to me where Platt reminds us that Jesus himself 'has not merely called us to go to all nations; he has created us and commanded us to go to all nations'. Somewhere along the way, we have reduced this command to a calling. Platt goes on to compare how we embrace Matthew 11:28 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" - whereas in Matthew 28 where Jesus commands us to make disciples of all nations; many tend to convince themselves that this scripture is intended for others, not themselves. Platt continues to support this comparison with other scriptures - basically - how we have become disturbingly comfortable taking certain scriptures of the bible that are pleasing to us and claim them; while on the other hand, we convince ourselves that other scriptures are intended for 'other people'... And this is just page 73.

Searching for God and being blessed with finding His truths involves many 'ouch' moments along the way. This book, Radical, is filled with joyful 'ouch'es. If you are seeking Christ and are truly looking for answers to the fundamental question of 'why are we here?' - Radical will fill in a lot of those blanks.

Platt will also give you the opportunity (and resources) to take a one-year challenge that will offer some major, radical changes in your life. This challenge comes at the end of the book. A book that is written to encourage those that know they are called and commanded to make disciples of all nations - and to use our excess in doing so. And more so, a book that is especially written for those who don't.