READ
Matthew 9:35-38
CONSIDER
You often hear phrases like, ‘Remember to invite your friends to church this week.’ or ‘Invite the children to our programs.’ among others. However, some advocate for a different approach: ‘Go to their schools, go to their workplaces,’ or ‘Hang out with people who do not know God.’ Which approach would you agree with more? Bringing people to church or going to the places where they are?
Regardless of whether you believe in incarnational or attractional mission, there’s one crucial aspect of these actions that you should never neglect: it’s the fuel for Jesus’ mission. You may be surprised that without such fuel, your mission work would be short-lived or empty. Join me this Sunday to find out what you need in order to practice incarnational mission.
Pastor Amy Yu
PRAY
Father, I confess that sometimes I become indifferent or self-focused, overlooking the spiritual needs of those around me. Please forgive me and fill me afresh with Your Spirit so that I may share in Your heart for the lost and hurting. As I come before you in prayer, I am reminded of the example set by Jesus in Matthew 9:35-38. Lord, I long to embody the compassion and mission displayed by Jesus in His ministry. Like Jesus, I desire to see the crowds with eyes of compassion, recognizing their need for a shepherd. Open my heart, Lord, to feel deeply for those who are lost, broken, and in need of Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
DIVING DEEPER
Teaching the truth, proclaiming the Good News, healing the sick, and sending out for incarnational mission are the actions of Jesus’ ministry. Which one are you more gifted in? How have you been using these gifts in your daily interactions lately?
Incarnational mission and attractional mission (refer to the sermon) are popular approaches for the church’s mission. Which one have you experienced more in your own faith journey? Which one do you feel is more in line with your theological beliefs?
How do you perceive your level of compassion? How would you enhance your compassion for the people God loves?
Verse 36, ‘…harassed and helpless…sheep without a shepherd.’
Who are they? What are their names? How are you going to show care to them?
Verses 37-38, ‘…harvest is plentiful…’
Who has the urgent need for the Good News? Where and how are you going to create opportunities for them to hear the gospel?