I was just 10 years old when the first Star Wars movie came out. I was hooked right away on the story of other civilizations in faraway galaxies, not to mention one of the greatest depictions of the battle between good and evil in recent times. A few years later there was the first sequel, and then a third movie after that, all of which were extremely popular. Then a generation later they released 3 more new Star Wars movies that were pre-quells (set before) to the original movie. Then came another three movies that continue the story after the original three. I know, the timeline is very confusing. And . . . in addition to that, the Star Wars franchise has also produced other movies and shows that are not part of the main story line, but provide backstory for the main characters and story line. In total there are 9 major movies and several small movies or shows that help to tell this one epic story we call Star Wars.

The mission of God is a lot like an epic story: there are some major episodes that carry the main story line with many other side stories that fill in the back story, so the one main story has a greater meaning for us. Many people think the concept of mission is just a New Testament development, but the mission of God is something that is almost as old as the origins of man, making for a captivating epic story. This Sunday we are considering the very origin of the call to mission, which will help us to understand both the focus and broader scope of the church’s mission. From its very beginning the 1Mission of God is the redemption of the people and nations of the earth. The amazing thing about this epic story is that it is still being written and there is a place for you and for our church in the recording of this story. Join me this Sunday as we seek to find our place in the epic story of God’s mission.