by Walter Selke
Recently, Cindy and I had the joy of sitting in our front room with a young couple. Over coffee, we talked about opportunities in missions, and the call of God. I asked them, “Why would you leave the pastorate and a secure career to raise support, travel across the ocean, and reach out to the First Nations people?”
With enthusiasm shining in their eyes, they answered, “God has been putting First Nations people on our hearts. He has given us a vision to reach out with the Gospel. When we searched online for ‘First Nations Missions,’ Northern Canada Evangelical Mission’s name came up – so we reached out, and here we are!”
For years, Cindy and I have been presenting in Bible schools and churches, sharing about the needs and the opportunities to serve among First Nations. It is exciting to see God stirring hearts. The most common question we hear is: “But what can I do?”
Many may assume that serving with NCEM means only preaching and teaching in a remote community. Our Mission’s vision is: “By faith to establish strong indigenous multiplying churches,” and there are many ways to have a part in that vision. There are communities requesting a missionary, and to support them there are opportunities in office work, construction and maintenance, video production, printing, and tech support. In fact, almost every skill can be used in missions!
We also love seeing retired folks get involved. They often have valuable skills, ministry experience, and financial support already in place. After one presentation in a church, a man came up to me and said, “You’ll really take anyone?” I smiled and told him, “No, only those the Lord is leading. But the Lord is calling many different people. Maybe God is calling you?” He walked away shaking his head – but hopefully with something to think about.
The young couple went on to share something that deeply moved us: “We know God is calling us, and it isn’t just about what we can do. It’s about God hearing ‘the cry of the people.’ He wants us to let them know that He has heard their cry, and that He longs to bring healing to their hearts.”
Cindy and I sat quietly, reflecting on this. Missions is not only about fulfilling the Great Commission – it is also about being God’s hands and feet to answer “the cry of the people.” What a privilege it is to witness God raising up workers from all over the world to bring His hope and healing.
Pray … Continue to pray with us that more people will hear God’s call to serve in missions, and respond with willing hearts.
Hear what the Lord is doing among First Nations. Invite Walter & Cindy Selke to visit your church/group.
Email them at <walter.selke@ncem.ca>
(from Northern Lights issue #570)