Monument Ministries

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.”
John 14:26

The day is Monday, November 13, 2017. The weather was chilly cold and the smiles were everywhere as people from all over the globe came to visit Washington D.C. Once again I am asked to take pictures of a complete stranger in the foreground of the Lincoln Memorial. My new friend is Roman, he speaks Mossi (his native language), French and English. He is a wonderful business man in the medical field from Burkina Faso, Africa. I was able to practice speaking French with him as he bought me a coffee while we walked around all the monuments.

This conversation was very unique with Roman being a Muslim and me a Biblical Christian. We shared what we love in life according to what we value and cherish of what’s been given to us. It’s amazing how gratitude and quality time can influence one another. I was reminded through my time spent with Roman of this great truth.

Between the joy of our dual language conversations we both had opportunities describing what makes us who we are. He began with asking me questions about my life as he shared with me his. Though he is a successful business man he spoke more about his desire to spend valuable time with his family rather than traveling the world making a name for himself. It was humbling to be in the presence of a man who gave kindness, care and respect for every word that I said. Time is a great gift and should be spent on others. I could see through his eyes the gratitude he had for me as I devoted my afternoon and evening to being his random American friend for a day (though I pray it will be lifelong friendship). During our time together he said something I pray will continuously humble me, and I quote, “You have represented what makes America great, thank you. I look forward to my next trip to the States, hopefully with my wife and daughter to rendezvous again at Lincoln.”

The thought that my actions and my words were a representation of the American spirit is quite a lot of pressure! But then again, we are called to an even higher representation as believers in Christ to share our faith to a world in need of Him. “Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” 2 Corinthians 5:20-21.

To be an ambassador means that you are a messenger or authorized representative. You and I have been given the highest rank in representing Christ. Therefore, walk worthy of your calling trusting that your labor, though the fruit is not immediate, God will give the increase. (Colossians 1:10)

“So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always working enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.” 1 Corinthians 15:58