In today’s world, things are increasingly marked by chaos and uncertainty. The call to stand firm in our faith is as important as ever. Christ’s command to be the “salt of the earth” and “light of the world” remains unchanged (Matt 5:13-14). Our mission as Christians is clear . . . reach out to those who don’t know Jesus. This could be anyone…the lost, the broken, the addicted, the liar, the thief, the forgotten. 

It is easy to feel overwhelmed or want to just crawl in a hole of familiarity where we are comfortable. However, Jesus didn’t turn away from those that some would deem ‘unworthy’. He showed compassion to the outcasts. As His followers, we are called to do the same.

  1. Embrace the Uncomfortable. We must not remain in the familiar but instead venture into discomfort in order to reach those who are suffering. We don’t grow in the familiar or enact change in the comfortable.
  2. Show Christ’s Love. Show others love through our actions and words as a reflection of God’s love.
  3. Pray and Pray More. Prayer can become familiar too, but it’s not just a routine; it’s a powerful tool for change. We must lift up those in need to the Lord. Praying for others by name is powerful.

In John 8:12, Jesus declares, “I am the light of the world”. As His disciples, we reflect His light. This means offering the hope in Jesus when others feel despair or uncertainty. It means extending grace to others, and even to yourself, when judgement is so rampant. Finally, it means standing firm in the truth of the Gospel when society promotes moral relativism.

Our call to disciple others isn’t just about teaching. It’s about walking alongside people in their journey. How do we do this? I’ve noticed the power in building genuine relationships with others. Share your story. Everyone has a testimony. How have your own struggles and victories affected your life and your light? Most importantly, how was Jesus involved in your transformation?

Sharing your testimony can be so vulnerable but it is a key component in reaching others. People want to see others doing good and find success in their lives and within their families – no matter how that looks. 

There was a time when I was the lost. I was the addicted – searching for meaning in all the wrong places. If it wasn’t for my family’s unwavering love and their persistent prayers, along with faithful intercession from their church family, I wouldn’t be here today. By God’s amazing grace, I now celebrate seven years free from the chains of addiction. The Lord was working behind the scenes all along, moved by the hearts and prayers of those who loved me and wanted God’s best for my life. 

If I had stayed in my despair and not been shown some light by those meeting me right where I was, my life would be very different. You surely wouldn’t be reading my words here now. My story reminds me daily that no one is beyond the reach of God’s redemptive love. What does your story show? Who can you reach? 

The world doesn’t need more critics or judges – it needs more lights. As Christians, we have the privilege and responsibility to stand firm in what is right, to reach out to the lost, and to show that true hope is found in Jesus alone. Now is not the time to shy away, it’s time to step forward in faith, knowing that He who called us is faithful, always!

“Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” – 1 Corinthians 15:58

Amy Spicer is Communications Manager at Koinonia Church in Hanford, CA. She can be reached at amy@kchanford.com or 559-582-1528.