The Tip of the Spear

January 2025

 

The year 2025 began as most New Year’s celebrations typically do—with festivities, fireworks, and feasting. However, for at least ten people, their lives ended tragically within three hours of the New Year when an Islamic terrorist attack struck the heart of New Orleans, Louisiana. For 35 others injured either by the attacker’s truck or gunfire, some may recover, but others may not. Regardless of the outcomes, the lives of many have been permanently altered by the deliberate actions of those driven by an ideology rooted in hatred and expressed through violence.

Jesus referenced “the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias” in Luke 11:51, highlighting how hatred and violence have plagued humanity across centuries. He further explained that those who follow the desires of the Devil reveal him as their father, a murderer and liar from the beginning. Yet, the Gospel offers a powerful antidote to this darkness. As stated in John 8:32, “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” The truth of the Gospel has the power to liberate men from hatred and violence, and sharing this truth must remain at the forefront of the church’s mission.

The Cambridge Dictionary defines the phrase “tip of the spear” as “a person or group of people that is the first to do something considered difficult or dangerous, especially a group of soldiers who are the first to enter a battle area.” Missionaries, guided by an ideology forged in love and expressed through truth, embody this role. As they venture into the strongholds of the Devil, rescuing souls from the fires of hell, it is our responsibility to disciple and prepare new missionaries to continue this vital work.

Let us remain faithful to this calling, believing that compassion can make a difference. As John 8:36 reminds us, “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.”

Your Servant in service,

 

 

 

GFF General Director