Claiming the World for Christ

by Shalom Bay
GLDI Class of 2008
Student, UCLA
 
I had viewed God as a distant being—one who surveys us from galaxies away. At church, I studied Him as any historical figure like Honest Abe or Martin Luther. My life did not consistently reflect a life of one leaning on God. This truth became a way of life for me after 40 days of GLDI. I now see things in a new light. God is alive and moving, and He is sovereign. His immutability is my rock and strong foundation. Only 10 days after GLDI commencement, I boarded a plane for France.

The idea of studying abroad had fascinated me—traveling to exotic countries, tasting every patisserie in Paris, learning new languages. However, it’s much more than that. I know I am here on a mission as an ambassador for Christ.
God had a reason for placing me here in Grenoble when I had originally signed up for Lyon. Surrounded by massive mountains, the province has literally one at the end of every street. Ironically, although it snows profusely in the mountains during the winter, hardly any reaches the city. Its geographic formation alone is shaped like an empty bowl. I strongly believe God is just waiting to pour His spirit upon this place and fill it like a basin. Every day His mercies are new, and He shows me His creation. While touring the south of France, we marveled at the rushing rivers and the breathtaking scenery surrounding us. Amazingly, this beautiful land is ours as an inheritance. We are coheirs to His kingdom, and the whole world is ours to subdue. Ms. Mimi Song’s lecture convicted my heart of the need to claim our authority and ownership of these lands for God. If we don’t who will?

In my group, I’ve hardly encountered any who believe. The other day a few people were mocking Christians who believe in God and the Bible, saying that people who hear the voice of God are no different than schizophrenics. I realize that my actions may be the only Bible these people may ever read. Moreover, school starts at my university in the upcoming weeks. Interestingly, it is known to have the most international students. I have a huge responsibility and obligation to these students to share the good news, so they too can take it back to their homelands. God specifically placed me here and I will obey His call!

Clearly, five and a half months alone in France with zero accountability could be very difficult. Away from home and family, it’s easier to succumb to pressures and temptations. If God had not provided 58 brothers and sisters to assist me with prayer and support, I would not have the firm foundation I stand on now. Though I may seem physically alone, I’m never alone. There is a cloud of witnesses cheering me on from above and GLDI brothers and sisters running the race, contending for the faith beside me, all over the globe. I can rejoice and strive because His faithfulness endures always.
God used GLDI to put my life in perspective—past experiences, my likes and dislikes, my hobbies and passions. Every day I encounter opportunities to obey God and serve His kingdom. I’m thankful and excited that after fully filling and equipping me for 40 days, God sent me out right away to live out and proclaim the faith and truth to the lost. I praise God for His grace and mercy and the hope I have in Him. I’m learning to depend on and trust Him at all times.

However, it’s never anything I do. He’s teaching me to be still and seek His will. I’m eager to see how God will work and transform this city the next couple of months. Until then, in the words of Dr. Os Guinness: “The revolution is still on!”