Some things I've heard are encouraging, but many others are very revealing of some Christians' attitudes towards the missions who are out there trying to fulfill Jesus' last command.

One statement which is usually heard at year-end goes, "... Another letter asking for money, always asking for help to balance their budgets."

Now, I've received my share of these letters, too, and the people are right. The asking for help of one kind or another is endless.

But a story I heard awhile ago changed my thinking considerably.

A man related: "I once had a fair-haired little boy. He was four years old, an inquisitive and energetic little guy who was always asking for things ... my help, my ear, and even my money. It often annoyed me ... sometimes even irritated me. A few months ago he was riding his tricycle and was struck by a car and killed. Now he doesn't ask me for help any more. He is no longer a bother, annoyance or irritation. My hours are uninterrupted."

Today missions ask for recruits and for money to support them, for money to make books and videos. They even ask for volunteers to give their time. Would you want them to be gone? Ask a Russian believer who for decades received no mail from any mission. They were all gone. Stalin saw to that.

The next time you are annoyed by a letter asking for help, spread it out before the Lord and thank Him that there are still missions reaching the lost.