Living the Mission

June 11, 2026

From Pastor Eileen States

Summer SALT

A small group of our church family, along with several visitors, recently spent some quality time together during our Soul Winning and Leadership Training (SALT). This experience provided an opportunity for us to refocus on the mission Jesus gave His church to “go and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19). 

Together, we explored what it means to awaken spirituality in our own hearts and inspire others to seek a deeper walk with Jesus. We learned practical ways to mobilize and revitalize the church, discover Bible study interests, lead a Bible study, and live with intentionality, recognizing and reaching those who are searching for the truth found in God’s Word.

Sometimes when we hear words like evangelism or soul winning, we feel intimidated. We might picture ourselves standing before large groups of people, having all the right answers, or possessing gifts we do not think we have. Yet Jesus never intended disciple making to be reserved for a few gifted people. The Great Commission was given to ordinary believers; fishermen, tax collectors, mothers, workers, and everyday people who simply chose to follow Him.

I am so thankful for the example Jesus left us on how to not only minister to the physical needs of others, but to introduce them to a Savior who can bring spiritual healing to their souls. 

“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.’”  Ministry of Healing, p. 143

Notice the order. Jesus did not begin with preaching or teaching. He began with relationships. He entered people’s lives and listened to their concerns. He showed that He cared. He noticed the struggles others overlooked. He served before He preached. 

It may begin with learning the name of a neighbor. It may look like praying intentionally for a coworker, inviting someone to a meal, checking in on a struggling friend, or offering to study the Bible with someone searching for answers. The call to make disciples begins long before a Bible study lesson is opened, it begins with a heart aware of the people around us.

Imagine what God could do if every member saw themselves as part of His mission field. What if our church became known as a place where compassion is tangible, friendships are genuine, and people meet Jesus through each of us showing love and care for them?

Jesus’ final command was to make disciples. That means helping people not only know about Him, but also walk with Him. NOTE: While Jesus mingled with people and cared for their physical needs, He didn’t stop there. He understood their greater need was the spiritual healing and hope that only a relationship with Him could provide. 

During this week of training, a special emphasis was placed on what those next steps can look like for each of us. As you seek to live intentionally and share Jesus with others, may you allow the Holy Spirit to impress and guide you in being part of Jesus’ mission to “go and make disciples…”

Would you pray this prayer with me?

Lord, who are You placing in my life to love, serve, and lead closer to You?

The harvest is still plentiful. And God still works through willing hearts.

Pastor Eileen