November 18, 2025
— William Carey · Source: Carey's journal, 19 April 1794, in George Smith, The Life of William Carey, Shoemaker & Missionary (1885), ch. IV
Matthew 16:24–25 If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
Jesus calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him. This path is never easy. The journey of missionary work is often accompanied by uncertainty, sacrifice, and struggle, but it is precisely in these brokennesses that the glory of Christ is made all the more apparent. Only when I am willing to set aside my own plans, comfort, and sense of security can I truly enter into God's will and mission. May I not use difficulties as a reason to back down, but rather as an opportunity to exercise my faith and rely more deeply on the Lord.
Lord Jesus, thank you for demonstrating true following through your self-sacrifice on the cross. Give me the courage to walk the path you have called me to, to relinquish my own interests and security, and to follow only your will. No matter how many challenges lie on the missionary journey, strengthen me so that I may not retreat, but be made more steadfast through you. May my life become a vessel of your glory, so that your love may reach those who have not yet been reached. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.