Missions is an important aspect of our life as Christians. But what leads someone to answer Gods calling in a life of service? And what does this life look like?
Zach Harrod, American born missionary, has been serving in Prague for the last 20 years, including 14 years coaching and playing professional football for the Czech EFL team the Prague lions. Harrod entered the missions field after an encounter at a meeting of Athletes in Action, a college ministry organization focused on athletes at the collegiate and professional level. There he met New Zealander Timo Tagaloa, former All-blacks player, who shared his testimony and spoke on God’s reaching love. Tagaloa said “As far back as genesis Gods hearts always been for more than just a people.” This made Harrod begin to question whether or not God was calling him to tell people of His love, eventually leading to him wonder “Why don’t I have a passport?” After a trip to China was abruptly cancelled Harrod was redirected to the Czech Republic. Harrod decided that Prague was where God had him, and so he decided to stay there.
His ministry focus is Kolem Stolu, which is Czech for “around the table”, he creates an environment of discipleship in his own home “seeing apprentices of Jesus that will make apprentices of Jesus”, building a Christ centered community.
This community is a beautiful thing, but it is hard fought for as The Czech Republic is over 96% atheist. Czech in fact is sometimes considered the most atheistic nation in the world. Harrod says the biggest challenge serving in Prague is this apathy towards the Gospel or how he puts, it the “confused agnosticism.” Zach makes an effort to battle through this apathy simply trying to make an impact in the way he interacts with people saying, “I get excited even if somebody’s just upset even if [they] might be upset for the wrong reasons because at least they’re showing some passion and kind of getting out of that apathy.” This passion can lead to a heart that is more open to the gospel, and is a win in Harrod’s eyes.
The life of a missionary is often one full of obstacles. Sometimes in our own lives it can be hard to see around these obstacles that we face. But when you walk with God and trust in his plan for your life, he will show you the way. Whether that be the life of a missionary overseas, or a supporter in the states.
