The next step in forming a plan is about passion and intensity. We must commit to living like every person matters. This is the mission turned from head knowledge to gut-level emotion. It would seem the idea that every person matters is obvious given the Great Commission, but unfortunately most Christians have not historically acted like it is obvious.
We feel it is essential to learn to feel compassion and care for others so that we do not become apathetic or lose focus of the mission. This compassion does not come from guilt or obligation, as if we are repaying some debt to God. Rather, we have met God, and it has changed us. We want every person to experience the love and hope of knowing Jesus, and thus every person matters.
We see the example of Christ, who offered His redemption to everyone, rich and poor alike. We see Paul, who was driven to the ends of the earth telling people about life in Jesus. We affirm the intrinsic value of all people, as all people are made in the image of God.
It is not as if we can flip a switch and begin to feel compassion for all people. Getting to this place is a process, and that is why acknowledging then need to feel that every person matters is part of forming a plan to accomplish Jesus’ mission. We begin by asking God for this desire. We need to think about it and pray that God would make our hearts to be like His.
When people who remember the mission of Jesus become passionate about the importance of every person, amazing things can happen for God’s kingdom.
“Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.” Luke 15:7; Jesus
“The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9
