Let’s Reach People!
The signs of our times indicate that the return of Jesus is nearer than many realize. Wars, rising violence, political tension, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes and economic instability have become part of everyday life. The imminence of Christ’s return ought to intensify our urgency to reach people while there is still time. As Seventh-day Adventist Christians, we have been called to reach people with the hope and healing found in Jesus Christ.
The ministry of Christ centered on people. In The Ministry of Healing, Ellen G. White emphasizes this point: “Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Savior mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs and won their confidence. Then He bade them, ‘Follow Me.’” Christ’s life illustrated this through reaching fishermen by the sea, tax collectors at work, hurting people in the shadows and broken sinners longing for a second chance. Jesus moved toward people whom others ignored, rejected or overlooked. And if we’re truly following Christ, we must do the same.
Reaching people requires more than sermons or programs inside the church. It requires hearts filled with compassion, eyes open to the needs around us and the willingness to step beyond our comfort zones to meet people where they are. Every day we encounter individuals carrying burdens we can’t see. Behind many smiles are silent struggles. Behind many successes are hidden pains. The church cannot afford to become so internally focused that it loses sight of the hurting world.
Reaching people is the calling of every believer. A kind word, a Bible study, a prayer, an invitation to worship, a compassionate act of service can become a divine appointment. Ministry isn’t confined to the sanctuary on Sabbath morning. Ministry happens in neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, hospitals, restaurants and homes.
Reaching people means building relationships before expecting results. Christ’s method of ministry still works today—mingle with people, show sympathy, minister to their needs, win their confidence and then invite them to follow Jesus.
As Adventists, we’ve been entrusted with a prophetic message of hope, healing and preparation for the soon return of Christ. But a message cannot change lives unless it’s shared. The world is longing for authentic faith, genuine love and spiritual certainty. Now is the time to pray more, serve more, love more and reach more!
Someone near us is looking for hope. Someone near us is looking for biblical truth. Someone near us is looking to meet Jesus. In the name of Jesus, let’s reach them!
By Carlton P. Byrd, D. Min.
President
