Our 17 year old daughter,  Rachel,  is making her final preparations for her trip – Kilimanjaro 2012: climbing poverty mountain. In this series of blogs we wanted to share why we pushed aside our natural parental tendencies of protection to let her climb Africa’s highest mountain. More in this mini-series here.

2. Because we want her to make a kingdom difference

As agents of the King we have a responsibility to extend his kingdom. Jesus put it like this.

“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour” Luke 4:18-19.

This is now our responsibility.

“Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you!  As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit” John 20:21-22.

Everywhere we look we are encouraged to put ourselves first because ‘we’re worth it!’ Jesus taught us to put others first because they’re worth it. That’s the kingdom way, and that’s what makes a difference. We have a responsibility to encourage ourselves and one another, including our children, to love and good works.

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds” Hebrews 10:24.

For every £20 raised someone will be released from poverty forever.

That will make a real difference!