The Greatest People on Earth

I received this in an email from James Robison. He is the host of 'Life Today', a program that has Christian guests on it or just him and his wife. He goes around the world feeding those that need it most. Most recently, he's known for putting up wells in villages so people have clean water to drink.
Here is the story of the greatest people on earth:
it’s not uncommon for people to ask me, “Who is the greatest person you’ve ever met?” In my experience, the greatest people on earth are the missionaries and relief workers I have seen up close and personal. Around the world, they give their time, energy and sometimes their lives to help suffering people. Their lives, commitment and sacrifices, along with the joy in which they do it, leaves me overwhelmed.
Jesus said, "Everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life." (Matthew 19:29) Clearly, he values this type of selfless service, so I recognize the greatness inherent in such dedication.

Wherever we go -- China, Romania, India, Angola, Croatia, Bolivia and many other places -- we find people to admire. I mentioned this to Peter Pretorius one time, telling him that Betty and I thought that the missionaries were the greatest people we had ever met. His reaction, and Ann’s [his wife] as well, really surprised me.

“James, let me tell you what we missionaries think,” he said forcefully. “The people who recognize the need, whether it’s by watching LIFE Today or some other means, and then reach out to help, these are the greatest people on earth. They are the greatest examples of God’s love because even though they are unable to personally meet someone else’s need, they are determined in their hearts to make sure the need is met. They make it possible for missionaries to go into the fields of suffering with hands filled with possibilities and life. They are the great enablers.”

Peter made me realize that regardless of how much the missionaries care, how much they pray, or how much they want to help, they are empty-handed without the support of others. In practical terms, it’s impossible for a missionary to hold a high-paying job or raise funds personally while they work to help others. Like the rest of us, they can only do one thing at a time. They would simply stand, weeping in the face of disaster with no way to alleviate the suffering, if it wasn’t for hundreds and thousands of others who give them the support, both financially and spiritually, that they must have to fulfill their mission.

That mission involves “Good Samaritan” care, like providing food, shelter and medicine, but it also involves evangelism. Paul wrote in Romans 10, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." He then asked, “How can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent?” A handful of people are called to do the physical work, but it takes a larger group to send them.

After reading this I realized this is my gift. I had thought 'if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously'(Romans 12:8) was me but this confirmed it. I play a crucial part in the missions field even though I have only been on two missions trips.
Let me encourage you to give to missions. God will bless you and your money will be used for a people you may never know until you step into heaven with them and you'll hear that song being played...'Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am a life that was changed. Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am so glad you gave.' What a glorious day that will be when I see all the lives I touched for the Kingdom. How can you not give?
**I have used only the part of this email that most relates to me. Click here to read the whole thing.**