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The call to missions begins not in a distant land, but in our own communities, with the people we see every day. Jesus emphasized this truth when He declared in Mark 12:31, “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” True love for our neighbors goes beyond simple kindness or friendly gestures; it means caring for their greatest need—their need for salvation. While meeting physical needs is important, the most compassionate thing we can do for someone is to introduce them to Jesus Christ. If we claim to love our neighbors but withhold the gospel from them, can we truly say we care about their eternity?

Loving our neighbors with the gospel requires both compassion and courage. Many people hesitate to share their faith out of fear—fear of rejection, fear of not knowing what to say, or fear of damaging a relationship. But Scripture reminds us that we are called to be ready to share the hope we have in Christ. 1 Peter 3:15 instructs us, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.” The gospel is not something to be kept hidden; it is meant to be shared. Even small acts of kindness—a word of encouragement, an invitation to church, or an offer to pray for someone—can open doors for deeper conversations about Christ.

Many people in our communities are silently searching for hope, battling unseen struggles, and longing for something greater than this world offers. They need someone to point them to Jesus. Romans 10:13-14 asks, “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?” Every believer is called to be that messenger—to bring the hope of salvation to those who have never truly heard or understood it. Missions is not just about going overseas; it is about being faithful where God has placed you.

This week, ask God to give you a heart of intentionality in loving your neighbor. Pray for opportunities to share the gospel, whether through a conversation, a simple act of kindness, or an invitation to hear God’s Word. Trust that He will prepare hearts and open doors for you to share. Loving our neighbors means pointing them to Jesus—the only One who can truly save and transform their lives. Will you be faithful in sharing His love today?