Reach Out!
BRD REFLECTION 2025
Luke 10 and Psalm 22:22-31 (NIV)
(Philip Yuen from Small Group Ministry)
READ:
Read Luke 10 and Psalm 22:22-31 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
As I meditated on these verses, I pondered: what is the common thread that weaves them together?
“… the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of Him… He told them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few'” (Luke 10:1-2).
And: “I will declare your name to my people; in the assembly I will praise you.” (Psalm 22:22)
While the Psalmist proclaims that we are to reach out to declare God’s majestic and powerful Name, Jesus forewarns that, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few…”
Then it dawned on me: WE are His workers!
Indeed! Few are prepared to reach out. Why? It costs sacrificial time, much effort and inconvenience and perhaps, some financial commitment.As Jesus tells us in the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10), it will cost us!
APPLY:
On a recent overseas mission trip, I was touched by a local Lay Leader who prayed powerfully for those who sought prayers. I learnt that this gentleman was a former construction worker in Singapore for eight years. On his days off, he used to rest at a church near his work site. He was shown much love and the Gospel was shared with him. He eventually accepted Jesus as his Saviour! When he returned to his village , he offered to serve the local village church. His passion for the gospel and his sacrificial services to the villagers were noted, and he was appointed Lay Leader in their Local Church Executive Committee. It made me reflect on how I felt when I experienced being lost in a crowd when I was overseas or in a new environment.
Have I truly welcomed a stranger to my church or at work? Have I ever stepped forward to stop a bleeding wound or offered to pray for a broken heart? Have I proclaimed the gospel of Jesus Christ through loving words or helpful services? Like the Samaritan, did it cost me much?
DO:
Reach out! Act! Speak peace, speak kindness, speak life and hope! That is what I will do.
PRAY:
Jesus Christ, You have taught me to reach out courageously in sacrificial love to serve all, as I declare Your Holy Name. May my hands and heart preach what my lips teach. Amen!
