I was a newlywed at the age of 21, married to David Lall, eldest son of the eminent pioneer New Testament restoration movement leader the late Dr. Vijai Lall.
I cannot forget the day my father-in-law introduced me to three of his special friends. These friends were planning better strategies to extend God’s territory and stand in the gaps of broken walls of the lives of the people of different congregations. I was fascinated by their passionate zeal and dedication and had known them as great leaders. But that day I learned about their humble beginnings. One was found in a garbage heap, probably an illegitimate and definitely unwanted child. He was raised by a Christian family and is the leader of the largest congregation in our state. Another was sold for a quarter of rupees (not even a penny) and a bag of rice. The third one was left at the door of a Christian missionary. It was amazing for me to see how effectively they all were bringing glory to the Lord through their work and lives.
Humble Beginning, Amazing Ending
The book of Joshua begins with the call of a faithful servant of Moses to lead God’s people to the promised land with specific instructions and rewards in the form of blessings, happiness, peace, and prosperity. These blessings are always there for us no matter what kind of dark cloud surrounds us, no matter how deep the valleys of darkness, death, or persecution, no matter what pressures or difficulties we face. If his hand is over us he will lead us to victory to glorify him.
A Leader of God’s Choice
The awesome God of ours who was and is and will be the same forever has commissioned us through his Son Jesus to be his leaders (Matthew 28:18-20). He made us his light to bring salvation to the dark corners of the world (Acts 13:47). The calling has been simple and the promise is certain: “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness” (Matthew 25:23).
Let’s remember, “We are the Lords’ servant.” Not our will but his be done in our lives. This should be the song of our lives as Christians because we are not our own. Let the whole world around us acknowledge it. |L
Dr. Sheela Lall is a native missionary in India. She helps direct Mid India Christian Mission and is principal of Dr. Vijai Lall Memorial College. Sheela and her husband David have three children.
