The Greatest Witness

I’ve had the privilege of ministering to people from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds. What I’ve discovered is that whether supporting a church plant of Ghanaian immigrants, planting a church with Zomi believers, serving Spanish-speaking congregations from Central and South America or hosting exchange students from different countries, one truth remains: every heart longs for love.

This should come as no surprise to us as believers. When asked to name the greatest commandment, Jesus gave a two-part answer: first, love God with all your heart, soul and mind—and second, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” Matthew 22:39. Love is not a suggestion; it is a command. 

It’s easy to love those within our comfort zones—people who share our language, customs, perspectives or beliefs. But the real test and calling of Christlike love is how we treat those who are different from us.

Every person has been created in the image of God and carries an innate, God-given need to be loved and to belong. Yet for many, there can be a sense of fear and uncertainty: What if I say the wrong thing? What if I offend someone unintentionally?

But here’s the truth: most people deeply appreciate when someone makes the effort to connect. It’s not about perfect words; it’s about love.

Jesus modeled this beautifully. He repeatedly stepped outside of social and cultural circles to connect with people others avoided. He spoke with a Samaritan woman, healed a Roman centurion’s servant and dined with tax collectors. His love was bold and boundary-breaking. At the very core of Jesus’ mission was love for the outsider, the overlooked and the different.

Love is the universal language. It transcends cultural divides and societal barriers. When others see genuine, Christ-centered love in us, their hearts are softened. What begins as a simple act of kindness can open the door to meaningful, transformative relationships. When others see genuine, Christ-centered love in us, their hearts are softened. A simple act of kindness can open the door to meaningful, transformative relationships. While learning someone’s language is appreciated, it’s far outweighed by offering a listening ear, caring for needs or sharing a meal together.

In a divided world, the Church is called to be different. We are called to embody the love of Christ, not just in word but in action. Let us love across cultures, across languages and across boundaries. Let us be the kind of neighbors Jesus spoke of, who reflect God’s heart to all people.

Because in the end, love is not only the greatest commandment—it is the greatest witness.

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By Daniel Ortega

President