December 5, 2006

That's the question one of my high school coaches asked me as I plodded by him one hot, hot August morning years ago as I struggled to get into shape for the coming football season. It's a question I've asked myself a few times since. Probably all of us do it one time or another. As missionaries, we've seen the cost of living skyrocket in France and the rest of Europe. As we lament $3 a gallon gas in the USA, there it is pushing $6. The weakness of the dollar has added about a third or more to rent bills, food bills, and outreach evangelism costs. So, I ask, "Is it worth it?"

Then I think of that man who was healed in a meeting in sunny Brignoles in the south of France. How much is that worth? And I remember those young people at the front of the church, crying out to God after an altar appeal during a youth rally in Toulon. Does that make it work it? I remember that young lady, unmarried and pregnant who was touched by an article in 'Victoire' magazine. Can I put a monetary value on her life? Or the ladies who've been touched by Phyllis' ministry?

Our budget challenge is great. Living and working in France is tough. Missing family when we're there hurts. Is it worth it? My answer is the same that I gave the football coach, all those years ago...a resounding, "Yes!" Yes, it's worth it! God has many, many more people he wants to touch in Europe and we're convinced He's called us to be part of that harvest.

By David Porter
AGWM Personnel to France