By Rev. David Cameron
The original “Star Trek” mission was to last five years. It’s part of the opening credits for the original TV program. The show (unfortunately, in my opinion) didn’t make it that long before being canceled. I think perhaps that’s why in the later reboot, “Star Trek: The Next Generation”, in the opening monologue they speak of being on “…a continuing mission”. This allowed more wiggle room in case the show was a hit or a bomb, though the show ended up having a nice long run with multiple spin offs and movies.
I like the sound of “a continuing mission.” It gives a feeling of permanent motion, adventure, adaptation, and learning. It makes the mission larger than any single part and acknowledges the past while looking towards the future.
We are called as God’s children to be a part of God’s continuing mission. In fact, we are, each of us, a continuing mission in ourselves because of the Holy Spirit’s work within us.
As long as we draw breath, God is at work in us to help us become the best that we can be. As we grow as Christians, we learn more and more to be thankful for what God has done in us, and humble about all the work still to be done.
We should also learn to be patient with each other, and with ourselves while God is at work, either of which can be challenging at times. We KNOW that no one is perfect…but…
And that is where we grow patience. In that qualifier where we know better…but. God, with perfect patience, helps us to see that we do know better, so leave off the “…but” and continue with what God has called us to do and to be.
I think that’s the hardest part of a continuing mission; having patience with the work in progress in ourselves, and in others. That is what we are called to do.
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” Ephesians 4:2
“Who is wise? He that learns from everyone. Who is powerful? He that governs his passions. Who is rich? He that is content. Who is that? NOBODY.” – Benjamin Franklin
We all have room to grow. Let’s be patient with each other as we do.
With Love and Blessings,
David