My cousin is a missionary in a country that is over 98% Muslim. Every day he engages Muslims using their language, their culture, their beliefs, their traditions. He’s in their homes, their businesses, their marketplaces.
He shows them how much Jesus loves them by showing them how much he loves them.
The other day I was reading one of his recent e-newsletters where he described what a missionary is:
Missionaries engage culture respectfully, learning local languages, celebrating what is good, speaking against injustice, speaking for those too weak or abused to speak for themselves. Missionaries often love their adopted countries as much as natural citizens do. Missionaries exalt Christ and point to Him as the only answer for our common sin problem, and the only hope for lasting peace. They are a blessing to their families and society. They are loyal to their families, faithful to their authorities, and servants to their communities.
When I read this description I thought, “I’m a missionary. I do all of these things right here in Cedar Springs.” Like learning the local culture and traditions; celebrating the good in our community; speaking out for those who can’t; supporting our schools, police, fire, and elected officials.
I ♥ My Church and I ♥ Cedar Springs!
Two questions:
1. Do you agree with my cousin’s definition of missionary?
2. Are you a missionary in your community?
Craig T. Owens 
Tell me what you think about this...