PASTOR’S PARAGRAPHS

June, 2006

WOULD YOU QUALIFY
AS A MISSIONARY?

Most mission boards have stated qualifications for missionary service. Some require a seminary degree; others, college training, or the ability to learn a foreign language. Some have age limitations.

Many years ago a young man applied as a missionary candidate and was told to meet with an old, retired missionary at his home. The time set was 3 o’clock in the morning. The young man climbed the long set of steps and knocked at the door. He was invited in and was shown into the old missionary’s study. There he waited until 8 o’clock for his interview.

"Young man, I understand that God has called you to a foreign field. Can you spell?"

"Yes sir, I can."

"Then spell baker."

"B-A-K-E-R."

"That’s fine."

"Now, do you know anything about figures?" the examiner inquired.

"I know something about them."

"How much is two times two?"

He answered, "Four."

"That’s correct," said the retired missionary. You’ve done very well. You’ve passed the test. I’ll talk to the whole committee tomorrow."

At the board meeting the veteran missionary told all the men that the young man would make a fine missionary. "I tested him on self-denial. I told him to be at my house at 3 o’clock in the morning. He left a warm bed and came out in the cold with no complaint. Second, I tested him on promptness. He came on time. Third, I examined him on patience. I made him wait five hours to see me, after having him come at 3 a.m. Fourth, I tested him on temper. He showed no signs of irritability. He didn’t even question my delay. Fifth, I tried his humility. I asked him questions that a 5 or 6 year old could answer and he showed no sign of indignation. I believe this young man will make the Lord a good missionary."

Amen!