In a world that often prioritizes self-preservation and comfort, there's a profound call to those who follow Christ: to reach out to the unreached with a love that refuses to give up. This isn't just about attending church; it's about being the church. It's about transforming from spiritual consumers into spiritual contributors, embracing a crazy generosity that reflects the heart of God.

At the core of this mission is a value that resonates deeply with the divine: reaching those who are far from God. It's a challenge that requires us to step out of our comfort zones, just as someone once did for us. As Pastor Craig Groeschel powerfully stated, "We will do anything short of sin to reach people who don't know Christ. To reach people no one is reaching, we will do things no one is doing."

This radical approach to faith and outreach is exemplified in the words of Jesus Himself. In Mark 2:17, He makes it clear that His mission wasn't for those who were already "healthy" in their faith, but for the "sick" – those who needed redemption. This mission calls us to live with what we might call a stubborn love – an unyielding commitment to reach the lost, no matter the cost.

The story in Mark 2:1-5 beautifully illustrates this concept. Picture the scene: Jesus is preaching in a packed house in Capernaum. The crowd is so dense that there's no room even outside the door. Enter four determined friends, carrying a paralyzed man on a mat. Their goal? To get their friend to Jesus, no matter what.

This narrative teaches us three crucial lessons about reaching the unreached:

1. Compassionate Commitment

The four friends demonstrate an extraordinary level of commitment. They don't just sympathize with their paralyzed friend; they take action. This is the essence of Galatians 6:2: "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ." Their faith wasn't passive; it was active and alive.

This challenges us to reflect: Whose burdens are we carrying today? Are we willing to be inconvenienced for someone else's healing and salvation? Compassionate commitment means showing up even when it's difficult. It's about making that phone call, preparing a meal, offering a prayer, or extending an invitation to church.

As James 2:17 reminds us, "Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." The friends of the paralyzed man didn't just believe Jesus could heal; they acted on that belief, even when it meant breaking through a roof! Their actions spoke louder than words, embodying D.L. Moody's observation: "Out of 100 men, one will read the Bible, the other 99 will read the Christian."

2. Creative Courage

When faced with obstacles, these men didn't give up – they got creative. Unable to enter through the door, they made their own entrance through the roof. This creative courage is precisely what Paul refers to in 1 Corinthians 9:22: "I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some."

In our modern context, this might mean leveraging technology, exploring new ministries, or rethinking old traditions. It's about being willing to step out of our comfort zones and into spaces where the gospel is needed most. As Proverbs 11:30 says, "The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and the one who is wise saves lives."

This wisdom often involves thinking outside the box and being willing to break down walls – both literal and figurative – to bring people to Jesus. It might mean overcoming our own fears or challenging long-held traditions. After all, "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind" (2 Timothy 1:7).

3. Faith-Filled Follow-Through

The story culminates with Jesus responding to the faith of these friends by not only healing the paralyzed man physically but also forgiving his sins. Their perseverance paid off in a transformation that went beyond what they could have imagined.

This teaches us the power of faith-filled follow-through. It's not enough to feel compassion or even to believe that God can heal – we must act on that belief persistently. Hebrews 11:6 reminds us, "Without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."

The question for us becomes: Who are we bringing to Jesus today? It may not involve breaking through a physical roof, but it could mean persistent prayer, showing consistent love, or extending repeated invitations. The key is not to give up on those who seem far from God.

Importantly, Luke 5:20 highlights that Jesus saw "their faith" – not just the faith of the paralyzed man, but the collective faith of the community. This underscores the power of a believing community. We're called to be part of a faith family that believes for the impossible, that's willing to "tear the roof off" to bring people to Jesus.

In conclusion, we're called to live with a stubborn love – a love that's compassionate, creative, and filled with faith. Like the four friends in the story, we must refuse to let barriers stop us from reaching those who need God's love. This means bearing burdens, breaking rules when necessary, and following through with bold faith.

The challenge before us is clear: to become a community that will do anything short of sin to reach those who need Jesus. It's about moving beyond our comfort zones, thinking creatively, and persevering in faith. As we do so, we embody the very heart of God, reaching the unreached with a love that refuses to give up.

 Day 1: From Consumers to Contributors Reading: John 4:31-38

Devotional: Jesus' words to His disciples about having "food to eat that you know nothing about" challenge our consumer mentality. Just as Jesus found nourishment in doing God's will, we too are called to find fulfillment not in what we receive, but in what we give. Today, reflect on areas of your life where you might be operating with a consumer mindset. How can you shift towards being a contributor in your family, workplace, or community? Remember, true satisfaction comes from aligning our will with God's and participating in His work. Ask God to reveal opportunities where you can contribute to His kingdom today.

Day 2: Letting Your Light Shine Reading: Matthew 5:14-16

Devotional: As "the light of the world," we have a responsibility to shine brightly for Christ. This isn't about drawing attention to ourselves, but rather illuminating the path to God for others. Consider the areas of your life where your light might be hidden "under a bowl." What fears or hesitations are holding you back from fully shining? Remember, your good deeds are not meant to bring glory to yourself, but to your Father in heaven. Today, commit to one specific action that will allow your light to shine more brightly in your sphere of influence.

Day 3: Stewards of God's Grace Reading: 1 Peter 4:10-11

Devotional: God has uniquely gifted each of us, not for our own benefit, but for the service of others. Like a fruit tree that produces for the nourishment of others, we are called to be "faithful stewards of God's grace." Take some time to identify the gifts God has given you. How are you currently using these gifts to serve others and glorify God? Are there untapped areas where your gifts could be put to use? Ask God for wisdom and courage to step out in faith, using your gifts more fully for His purposes.

Day 4: Persisting in Good Works Reading: Galatians 6:9-10

Devotional: The Christian life is not a sprint, but a marathon. Paul encourages us not to grow weary in doing good, promising a harvest if we do not give up. This persistence is key to being a spiritual contributor rather than a mere consumer. Reflect on areas where you might be tempted to give up or where you've grown weary in serving. What motivates you to keep going? Remember Jesus' persistence in going to the cross for our sake. Ask God to renew your strength and vision, helping you to see beyond momentary challenges to the eternal impact of your faithfulness.

Day 5: Created for Good Works Reading: Ephesians 2:8-10

Devotional: Today's passage reminds us of the beautiful balance in the Christian life: we are saved by grace through faith, not by works, yet we are created in Christ Jesus for good works. This truth frees us from trying to earn our salvation while also giving purpose to our lives. Meditate on the idea that God has prepared good works in advance for you to do. How does this change your perspective on your daily activities and interactions? Ask God to help you see each day as an opportunity to step into the good works He has prepared for you, contributing to His kingdom as a natural outflow of your salvation.

 

Day 1: Embracing God's Immeasurable Love Reading: Ephesians 3:14-21

Devotional: Paul's prayer for the Ephesians reveals the profound depth of God's love for us. As we read this passage, let's reflect on the vastness of Christ's love - its width, length, height, and depth. This love surpasses human understanding, yet God invites us to experience it fully.

Today, meditate on how God's love has manifested in your life. Where have you seen evidence of His immeasurable love? How can you open your heart to receive more of this love? Remember, God's love isn't just a concept; it's a transformative power that can fill you "to the measure of all the fullness of God."

Prayer: Lord, help me grasp the magnitude of Your love. Let it permeate every aspect of my being, transforming me from the inside out.

Day 2: Stepping Out in Faith Reading: Hebrews 11:1-6

Devotional: Faith is the cornerstone of our relationship with God. As Hebrews 11:6 reminds us, without faith, it's impossible to please God. Faith requires us to trust in the unseen and to take risks for God's kingdom.

Reflect on your own faith journey. Are there areas where you're playing it safe instead of stepping out in faith? Remember, if you can accomplish something in your own strength, it doesn't require faith - it just requires planning. What is God calling you to do that seems impossible without His intervention?

Challenge yourself today to take a step of faith, no matter how small. It could be praying for something you've been hesitant to ask for, or reaching out to someone you've been avoiding. Trust that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him.

Prayer: Father, increase my faith. Help me to trust You more fully and to step out boldly in obedience to Your call.

Day 3: Trusting God's Promises Reading: Joshua 6:1-20

Devotional: The story of Jericho teaches us a powerful lesson about trusting God's promises even when circumstances seem impossible. God had already declared victory before the walls fell, but it required the Israelites' obedience and faith to see that promise fulfilled.

What "walls" are you facing in your life right now? What promises has God given you that seem impossible in your current situation? Remember, faith doesn't require full understanding - it requires full obedience.

Today, choose to focus on God's promises rather than your problems. Write down a promise from Scripture that speaks to your situation and meditate on it throughout the day. Trust that God's word is true, even when you can't see the results yet.

Prayer: Lord, help me to trust in Your promises, even when my circumstances seem impossible. Give me the strength to obey and the faith to believe in Your unfailing word.

Day 4: Letting Go to Move Forward Reading: Philippians 3:12-14

Devotional: Paul's words remind us that to move forward in our faith, we often need to let go of the past. This might mean releasing old habits, past hurts, or even good things that are holding us back from God's best.

Reflect on what you might need to release to step into God's destiny for you. Are you holding onto security at the expense of following God's call? Remember, if you never release, you will never receive.

Take some time today to prayerfully consider what God is asking you to let go of. It might be a relationship, a job, or a mindset. Trust that as you release these things into God's hands, He will lead you into something greater.

Prayer: God, give me the courage to let go of what's holding me back. Help me to trust in Your guidance as I step into the unknown, knowing You have good plans for me.

Day 5: Thinking Big for God's Kingdom Reading: Mark 16:15-20

Devotional: Jesus gave us a Great Commission, not a small one. He calls us to think big, to have faith that can move mountains, and to believe for the impossible. Our God is able to do "immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine."

How big are your prayers? How expansive is your vision for what God can do through you and your church? Challenge yourself to think bigger today. What would it look like to have a "mega vision" for God's kingdom?

Spend time in prayer today, asking God to expand your vision and increase your faith. Pray for your church, your community, and the world. Believe that God wants to do exceedingly abundantly more than we could ask or think.

Prayer: Lord, expand my vision to match Yours. Help me to think big, pray bold prayers, and have faith for the impossible. Use me to make a significant impact for Your kingdom.

 

Day 1: Embracing Our Heavenly Citizenship Reading: Philippians 3:17-21

Devotional: As citizens of Heaven, we're called to a higher standard of living. Paul reminds us that our true home isn't here on Earth, but in Heaven with Christ. This perspective should radically change how we view our lives and priorities.

Reflect on what it means to have your "citizenship in heaven." How does this truth impact your daily decisions and long-term goals? Are you living as though this world is your permanent home, or as a temporary resident awaiting your true home?

Today, identify one area of your life where you can shift your focus from earthly concerns to heavenly priorities. Perhaps it's in how you spend your time, manage your resources, or treat others. Ask God to help you live as a true citizen of Heaven, eagerly awaiting Christ's return and representing His kingdom well on Earth.

Day 2: Renewing Your Mind Reading: Romans 12:1-2, Colossians 3:1-3

Devotional: Our thoughts shape our actions. As citizens of Heaven, we're called to think differently from the world around us. Paul urges us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds, setting our thoughts on things above.

Consider the patterns of thinking that dominate your life. Are they aligned with God's truth or the world's values? Identify any areas where you've unconsciously adopted worldly thinking and ask the Holy Spirit to renew your mind in those areas.

Practice intentional thought replacement today. When you catch yourself thinking in ways that don't align with God's truth, consciously replace those thoughts with Scripture or godly affirmations. Remember, your mind is a battlefield, but through Christ, you have the power to take every thought captive (2 Corinthians 10:5).

Day 3: Speaking Life Reading: Ephesians 4:29-32

Devotional: Our words have immense power – to build up or tear down, to bless or to curse. As representatives of Heaven on Earth, our speech should reflect our heavenly citizenship.

Reflect on your recent conversations. Have your words been life-giving, encouraging, and grace-filled? Or have they been critical, negative, or gossipy? Ask God to reveal any patterns of speech that don't honor Him.

Today, make a conscious effort to speak words of life. Offer sincere encouragement to at least three people. When tempted to speak negatively, pause and ask yourself, "Does this reflect my heavenly citizenship?" Let your words be a testament to the transforming power of Christ in your life.

Day 4: Living Counter-Culturally Reading: 1 Peter 2:11-17

Devotional: As "foreigners and exiles" in this world, our lives should look noticeably different from those around us. Peter calls us to live such good lives that even those who oppose us will see our good deeds and glorify God.

Consider areas where your lifestyle might be indistinguishable from non-believers. Are there aspects of your life where you've compromised or conformed to the world's standards? Ask God to show you where He wants you to live more distinctively as His child.

Choose one area today where you can live counter-culturally for Christ. It might be in how you respond to a difficult situation, how you treat someone who's mistreated you, or how you prioritize your time. Remember, you're called to be salt and light in a world that desperately needs to see authentic Christianity lived out.

Day 5: On Mission in Your Neighborhood Reading: Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 1:8

Devotional: As citizens of Heaven, we're not just called to live differently – we're called to be on mission. Jesus commands us to make disciples, starting right where we are.

Reflect on your "block" – your neighborhood, workplace, or sphere of influence. How well do you know the people God has placed around you? Have you been intentional about praying for them and looking for opportunities to show Christ's love?

Today, take a prayer walk around your block or workplace. Ask God to open your eyes to see the people around you as He sees them. Pray for specific individuals by name if you know them. Ask God to show you one practical way you can be a light in your "block" this week – whether through an act of kindness, an invitation to connect, or simply being more present and available to those around you.

Remember, you are an ambassador for Christ's kingdom. Your life may be the only Bible some people ever read. Live in such a way that others see Jesus in you and are drawn to the hope of Heaven.

 

Day 1: Chosen by God Reading: John 15:12-17 Devotional: As we begin this journey, let's reflect on the profound truth that we are chosen by God. In John 15:16, Jesus tells us, "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last." This isn't about our worthiness, but about God's love and purpose for our lives. Take a moment to let this sink in: the Creator of the universe handpicked you for a divine purpose. How does this change your perspective on your daily life? Consider the areas where you feel inadequate or unworthy. Now, imagine how these situations might change if you approached them with the confidence of being chosen by God. Today, as you go about your routine, remind yourself: "I am chosen, not by people, but called by God." Let this truth empower you to live with purpose and confidence.

Day 2: New Creation in Christ Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:14-21 Devotional: Today's reading reminds us that in Christ, we are a new creation. The old has gone, the new has come! This transformation isn't just a nice idea—it's a radical reality that should impact every aspect of our lives. Reflect on your life before knowing Christ and how you've changed since. What old habits or thought patterns do you still struggle with? Remember, you're no longer bound by your past or defined by your mistakes. You have been reconciled to God and given a new identity. As an exercise, write down three ways you can live out this new identity today. Maybe it's extending forgiveness, showing kindness to a difficult person, or taking a step of faith you've been hesitating to take. Embrace your new creation status and let it fuel your actions today.

Day 3: Ambassadors for Christ Reading: Ephesians 6:18-20, Colossians 4:2-6 Devotional: As believers, we are called to be ambassadors for Christ. An ambassador represents their country in a foreign land—similarly, we represent God's kingdom in this world. Today's readings emphasize the importance of our words and actions in this role. Paul asks for prayer to declare the gospel boldly and clearly. How can you make your life a clearer representation of Christ today? Consider your conversations, your social media posts, your reactions to stress or conflict. Are they in line with your role as Christ's ambassador? Pray for wisdom and courage to represent Christ well in every situation. Remember, you may be the only Bible some people ever read. How can you make sure you're accurately conveying God's love and truth to those around you?

Day 4: Walking in God's Authority Reading: Luke 10:17-20, Ephesians 1:15-23 Devotional: Today we focus on the authority we have in Christ. In Luke 10:19, Jesus says, "I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you." This isn't about our own power, but about the authority given to us by Christ. What areas of your life do you need to reclaim with this God-given authority? Maybe it's fear, addiction, or negative thought patterns. Spend some time in prayer, declaring God's authority over these areas. Remember, as Ephesians 1 tells us, the same power that raised Christ from the dead is at work in us. How might your day look different if you truly believed and acted on this truth? Walk confidently today, not in your own strength, but in the authority of Christ.

Day 5: Ministers of Reconciliation Reading: Romans 5:6-11, Colossians 1:19-23 Devotional: Our final day focuses on our calling as ministers of reconciliation. God has reconciled us to Himself through Christ and has given us the ministry of reconciliation. This means we're called to be peacemakers, bridge-builders, and agents of God's reconciling love in a divided world. Reflect on relationships in your life that need reconciliation. How can you take a step towards peace today? Remember, we love because God first loved us when we were still His enemies. Is there someone you need to extend forgiveness or grace to, even if they don't deserve it? Pray for the strength to be a true minister of reconciliation in your sphere of influence. As you go about your day, look for opportunities to bring God's reconciling love to the situations and people you encounter.

 

Day 1: Embracing Your Identity as God's Masterpiece Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10

Devotional: Today, we focus on the transformative truth that you are God's masterpiece. In a world that often tells us we're not enough, God declares that we are His poiema - His work of art. Reflect on the journey from being "dead in transgressions" to being made alive in Christ. How does this radical transformation change your self-perception? Consider the areas in your life where you struggle to see yourself as God sees you. Take time to pray, asking God to help you internalize your identity as His masterpiece. Remember, you were created for a purpose that God planned long ago. How might embracing this truth change the way you approach your day-to-day life?

Day 2: From Weakness to Wholeness in Christ Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10

Devotional: Paul's words remind us that our weaknesses are not obstacles to God's work in our lives, but opportunities for His power to be displayed. Reflect on areas where you feel inadequate or weak. How might these very weaknesses be avenues for God's grace to shine through? The world often tells us to rely on our own strength, but God invites us to find wholeness in our dependence on Him. Today, practice surrendering your perceived weaknesses to God, trusting that His power is made perfect in weakness. How can you reframe your challenges as opportunities for God's strength to be revealed in your life?

Day 3: Designed for Destiny Reading: Jeremiah 29:11-14

Devotional: God's plans for us are rooted in hope and a future. This promise was given to people in exile, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, God's purpose for us remains. Reflect on times when you've felt lost or without direction. How does knowing that God has a specific plan for your life change your perspective on those moments? Today, take time to "seek God with all your heart" as the passage encourages. What steps can you take to align your life more closely with God's purpose for you? Remember, you were designed for a destiny that brings glory to God and hope to others.

Day 4: Transforming Words Reading: Psalm 139:13-18

Devotional: The Psalmist reminds us of the intimate care with which God created us. In a world where words can wound, God's truth about who we are stands firm. Reflect on negative words or labels you've internalized. How do they contrast with what God says about you in this Psalm? Today, practice replacing those negative thoughts with God's truths. Write down specific verses that speak to your identity in Christ and meditate on them throughout the day. How might consistently focusing on God's words about you transform your self-image and, consequently, your actions?

Day 5: Walking in God's Good Works Reading: Philippians 1:3-11

Devotional: Paul's prayer for the Philippians echoes God's desire for all believers - that we would abound in love, discernment, and the fruit of righteousness. This is the outworking of being God's masterpiece, created for good works. Reflect on the good works God has prepared for you. How have you seen God's hand guiding you toward specific acts of love and service? Today, be intentional about looking for opportunities to do the good works God has prepared for you. It might be a kind word, an act of service, or sharing your faith. Remember, these works are not to earn God's love but to express the reality of being His masterpiece. How does this perspective change the way you approach serving others?

 

Day 1: Embracing God's New Work Reading: Isaiah 43:18-19, 2 Corinthians 5:17

Devotional: God is constantly doing new things in our lives, yet we often miss them because we're too focused on the past. Today's reading reminds us to "forget the former things" and open our eyes to the fresh work God is doing. Just as He made a way in the wilderness for the Israelites, He's creating new paths for us today. Reflect on areas in your life where you might be clinging to past failures or even past successes. How might these be hindering you from seeing God's current work? Ask the Lord to give you fresh eyes to perceive His movement in your life and the courage to step into the new things He's doing.

Day 2: Overcoming Fear with Faith Reading: Matthew 14:22-33, 2 Timothy 1:7

Devotional: Peter's walk on water is a powerful reminder of what faith can accomplish and how fear can hinder us. When Peter kept his eyes on Jesus, he did the impossible. But when he focused on the storm, he began to sink. What storms in your life are causing you to take your eyes off Jesus? Remember, God hasn't given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline. Today, identify one area where fear is holding you back. Take a step of faith in that area, keeping your eyes fixed on Jesus rather than the circumstances around you.

Day 3: Preparing for Revival Reading: Joel 2:12-13, Acts 2:1-4

Devotional: The sermon mentions an coming revival and a great harvest of souls. But revival doesn't just happen; it starts with us. Joel calls us to return to God with all our hearts, with fasting, weeping, and mourning. This is a call to deep, sincere repentance. The disciples in Acts were in constant prayer before the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost. How can you prepare your heart for revival? Spend time today in honest self-examination and repentance. Pray fervently for God to move in your life, your church, and your community. Remember, if you want to see revival, become revival!

Day 4: Sowing Seeds of Faith Reading: 1 Corinthians 3:5-9, Galatians 6:9

Devotional: Today's passages remind us that while we are called to plant and water seeds of faith, it is God who makes them grow. This takes the pressure off us to produce results and instead focuses us on faithful obedience. Paul encourages us not to grow weary in doing good, for we will reap a harvest if we don't give up. What seeds of faith can you sow today? It might be sharing your testimony, inviting someone to church, or showing kindness to a stranger. Remember, you may never see the full results of your actions, but God is faithful to bring the harvest in His time.

Day 5: God's Love in the Midst of Trials Reading: Romans 8:28-39, James 1:2-4

Devotional: The sermon mentions how God can turn destruction into revival, just as the 1906 San Francisco earthquake led to the Azusa Street Revival. These passages remind us that God works all things for the good of those who love Him and that trials produce perseverance, which leads to spiritual maturity. Reflect on a difficult situation you're facing. How might God be using this to strengthen your faith or prepare you for something greater? Remember, nothing can separate us from God's love. Let this truth anchor you as you face life's challenges, knowing that God is with you and working even in the midst of your trials.