Don't just give to missions. SEND Missionaries.

You'll hear much over the next few weeks in Southern Baptist churches about giving to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.  You should give!  A lot!  But, don't just settle for giving to missions when you can be a SENDER of missionaries.

Why be a sender?

1. Sending is something God does. Our heavenly Father is a sender.  He was motivated by love to send His Son so that we could be rescued by a message of hope.  Be a part of sending missionaries who are motivated by love to proclaim a message of hope.  When you SEND missionaries you are following the example of your heavenly Father.
2. Sending is the responsibility of the church.  The hope of Galatians 3:14 is that 'hope would  come to the Gentiles.'  Jesus clearly communicated with his early followers that His Church would be His Workers.  As a part of the church you fulfill Christ's command when you SEND missionaries.
3. Sending missionaries is about more than money.  
• We have to provide spiritual support because of the spiritual battles (Eph 6:12).  
• We have to provide emotional support because of the challenges that cross-cultural workers face.  Emotional support can be provided by phone calls, emails, visits to the field, and other expressions of kindness and love.
• We have to provide accountability because iron sharpens iron (Prov 27:17).  Mature, constructive accountability of those you support is a part of your role as a Sender.  Ask questions.  Challenge those you Send to grow spiritually and avoid sin.  Many missionaries are in lonely, isolated places.  Your accountability role can play an important part in their lives.
• We must provide financial support.  It all belongs to God so make sure you're a good steward.
4. Sending brings blessings to the Sender.  You can enjoy the fulfillment of knowing that those who send missionaries share in the great work that is happening around the world.  And, those who send are a part of making disciples and those who make disciples have the promised presence of Jesus.

As you generously give to missions this Christmas, why not make a commitment to be the best Sender of missionaries that you can be?