I desire to do so much for the Lord. I want to be a missionary on the front lines. I want to write books that will change the world. I want to help shape American culture toward deeper faith. I want to be a leader at a groundbreaking, earthshaking ministry. I really want to make a huge difference in the world with and for God. But sometimes I feel like the formerly demon-possessed man right after he was healed. Check it out.

“As (Jesus) was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged him that he might be with him. And he did not permit him but said to him, “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” And he went away and began to proclaim in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him, and everyone marveled.” - Mark 5:18-20, ESV.

Jesus would not allow the man to go with them to change the world. Let that soak in. If you do, you will realize that most Christians are called to faithfully serve God at home. The truth is, God calls almost every believer in the world to faithfully serve Him day in and day out, right where they already live. That’s a burst-your-bubble reality for those of us who have eyes on bigger things.

I know firsthand the initial disappointment that brings. But I also know that there is great joy and contentment in doing exactly what God calls you to do, where He calls you to do it. In fact, when I look at what is right in front of me rather than the endless ministry possibilities around the world, I find more meaningful opportunities to serve the Lord than I could imagine.

In fact, when we are faithful in our everyday lives, God causes us to have an effect in our circle of influence and fills us with joy and peace at the same time. This is what Jesus told the man to do, and He wants 99.9% of us to do the same. Dream big dreams…of being faithful where you are. - Pastor Mike

BTW, I once worked for an elevator company. The job had its ups and downs.