Recently, I was doing some research to find out how many people in Alaska don’t know Jesus. For many reasons, this is a challenging question to answer. I figured I could at least find out how many people identify as Christians or have heard the gospel. From what I could find, around 50% of people in Alaska identify as Christians. As I considered this vague statistic, I began thinking about how each number was a living breathing person with a story. A person who wasn’t going to live forever, and they needed to hear about God who loves each individual deeply today.  Maybe you are someone for whom, by knowing the statistics, the seriousness of reaching people becomes heavier. For me, I’m not sure how much of a difference it makes, because in the end, one person who hasn’t heard the gospel is one too many. What is certainly true is that God is merciful and patient. He wants all to repent and creates time and space for people to turn to him. Yet, just like today’s scripture, reminding us that God isn’t being slow but rather patient, we should have an urgency to reach the lost.  

‍

For me it becomes so personal as I think about my life before having a relationship with Jesus. As I reflect on how knowing God has changed everything for me, I want others to know him, too. Knowing there are so many people right in front of me that are suffering as they live apart from God is heart-breaking.  Thinking about today’s scripture, I am beyond grateful that the Lord is patient for our sake, and I don’t want to take that for granted.

‍

What would make this urgency to reach those who don’t know Jesus real for you? Is it knowing that there are people out there who are just like you were before someone told you about Jesus? Maybe you think about that friend, family member, co-worker, or stranger who is hopeless. Does it weigh on you that there are people in your city, state, country, and around the world who will spend eternity apart from the Lord?

Often, we need something to give us a sense of urgency. Tomorrow isn’t guaranteed, so maybe the question we should ask is, am I reaching out to those God longs to save? What step could I take today toward doing so?  

• There are many people near and far who don’t know God – pray for them daily.

• You have someone in your life who is need of community – invite them in.  

• There’s that coworker that’s been on your heart to invite to church – this is the week.  

• You know people who are hopeless – share the reason for hope that you have.  

‍

As you consider what step you could take today, ask God how he is leading you to make his name known.  

‍

Lord, words cannot express the gratitude I have for your patience, that you didn’t give up on me. Thank you for the ways that you show me the urgency of reaching the lost. Would you break my heart for those who don’t know you? Please show me how you want to work in and through me and help me to be obedient. In Jesus’ name, Amen!