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Imagine a thriving Adventist movement in the South Pacific. Do images or stories come quickly to mind? This podcast recounts important events, stories and memories from Adventists throughout the South Pacific. These mission stories from our past are proof that the Adventist movement is alive and thriving. Listen to these podcasts and step out to join these pioneering Adventists with Jesus on His mission of making disciple-makers in the South Pacific.
I remember seeing black and white pictures of our Adventist pioneers as a little girl. Then as a Pathfinder learning their names, and details about why they were listed in the “Adventist Hall of Fame”, so to speak. I can’t say I retained too much other than an impression that, to be honest, lingers to this day—our pioneers had stern faces and unwelcoming features. (As a child I did not understand the process of photography of the day—the time required to sit completely still for the exposure to capture an image).
I now have cause to rethink my impression. Were our pioneers stern, unwelcoming or unemotional—like their faces hinted? As my mind skirts around my flickering thoughts, I land on a curiosity to understand the meaning of the word pioneer. Perhaps that will hold a clue.
The Cambridge dictionary explains it simply “to be among the first to study or develop something”. I think of early settlers, and expand the definition further—to trailblaze, try something new, step out into the unknown. Really, would people characterized by these definitions be stern or unemotional? Would a seemingly detached demeanour motivate someone to risk their reputation, livelihood, family or even life, to move against the pull of the crowd? On the contrary, I think they were most likely filled with passion, courage, inspiration, infectious charisma, and extreme dedication to “boldly go where no one had gone before”.
This redefinition reframes my thinking, and I grow in admiration for the men and women, who, in spite of a fear of the unknown, ventured anyway—I expect at times even with a smile!
God says through the Prophet Isaiah: “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it. I am making a way. . .” (43:19a).
God is the ultimate Pioneer, and invites us to trailblaze with Him, deeper into His way. It will take us out of our comfort zone, it will require risk and a lot of rethinking, but ultimately promises to bring greater love, hope and freedom into our lives, and to those around us.
I choose to step out into the known unknown!
Verse of the day:
“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland” Isaiah 43:19 (NIV).
Keryn McCutcheon is the ADRA NZ Country Director. She is enthusiastic about doing life deeply with God and others, and creating environments where people learn and experience a flourishing life, as Christ’s disciples.