Missions is a vital part of our Christian faith, as we are called to spread the Good News of Jesus to every corner of the earth. To illustrate this important calling, let’s look at a penny. As simple as a penny may seem, it holds powerful reminders of the role we all play in missions.
Watch our friend, Emily Spateholts, Director of Children’s Ministries at Houghton Wesleyan Church explain how a penny can remind us of missions or keep reading below.
And make sure you scroll all the way down for our FREE missionary penny bookmarks!
One Cent – One Sent
Turning the penny over, we see the words “One Cent.” This reminds us that a missionary is “one sent” to share the love of Jesus with others. Missionaries go into communities near and far, bringing the Gospel to people who may have never heard it before.
The United States of America – Missions Starts at Home
At the top of the penny, we see “United States of America.” This reminds us of Acts 1:8, where Jesus tells His disciples:
“You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Missions doesn’t start in some far-off country—it starts right here in our own homes, neighborhoods, and communities before it spreads outward to the rest of the world.
A Round Penny – A Global Mission
The round shape of the penny represents the whole world. Jesus’ command was not just for one place but for all nations. As followers of Christ, we are called to take His message to every people group, ensuring that His love reaches all around the earth.
E Pluribus Unum – Out of Many, One
Above the building on the penny, you’ll see the phrase “E Pluribus Unum,” which means “Out of Many, One.” This reminds us that while one penny—or one person—may not seem significant alone, together, we can accomplish great things. Not everyone is called to be a missionary, but we all have a role in missions—whether by praying, giving, or encouraging those who go.
In God We Trust – Trusting God in Missions
Flipping the penny back over, we see the phrase “In God We Trust.” This is a key truth for missionaries. They must trust God to provide for their needs, protect them, and use them to make an impact. Likewise, we should pray in faith, trusting that God will use His people to spread the Gospel worldwide.
Liberty – Freedom in Christ
On the penny, we also see the word “Liberty,” which means freedom. As believers, we experience the greatest freedom—the freedom from sin through Jesus Christ! This is the life-changing message that missionaries share. Additionally, we should be thankful for our freedom to worship, as many missionaries serve in countries where being a Christian is dangerous.
Abraham Lincoln – A Reflection of God
The penny bears the image of Abraham Lincoln, but this isn’t the real Lincoln—just a reflection of him. Similarly, the Bible tells us that we are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This means that when people look at us, they should see God reflected in our actions, words, and love for others. Missionaries live this out daily, demonstrating God’s love in the places they serve.
A Penny’s Purpose – Your Role in Missions
Who knew a simple penny could hold so many reminders about missions? As you hold onto your penny, use it as a reminder to pray for missionaries and consider how you can support missions—whether through prayer, financial support, or even going yourself. Maybe even start collecting pennies (or dollars!) to give towards mission work.
When we all come together, each giving what we can—whether it’s our time, money, or service—we can accomplish bigger and better things for God!
Download our FREE missionary penny bookmarks below to remember this fun lesson!
How will you take part in God’s mission today?
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