Honorably Wounded

The words honorably wounded have been at the forefront of my thinking lately. The term comes from the title of a book by Dr. Marjorie Foyle who was writing about missionary stress. I like the term because it accurately describes some of what I have seen in the lives of missionaries here in Nigeria.
Recently some missionaries have had to leave Nigeria because of attacks they have suffered. They have gone back to their country of origen to heal physically, emotionally and spiritually from violent assaults. We don't know know how long the healing process will take. Steps have been taken to assure the best possible care is given, the missionaries themselves are showing incredible courage and resilience. We also know that God has revealed himself as the one who restores the soul and we ask him to do what only he can do in the healing work. Yet we know that there will be scars, some of which may last a lifetime.
It is here where the honor comes in. These missionaries have come to this country in answer to God's leading and call. They knew risks were involved. Yet they responded to what they believed was God's leading. They surrendered themselves to God and to the needs of those who have yet to hear the good news of Christ. They were acting honorably. Yet in the midst of honorable obedience wounds have been suffered.
Some people will question the wisdom of serving here. Rather than seeing it as honorable they will see it as foolish. Yet the question must be asked, when is it foolish to obey the one who died on the cross for our sins? Jesus let us know that such sacrifices are not only honorable on earth, they will be honored in heaven also. "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven...Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven." Matthew 5:10,12