This afternoon, I had the chance to attend a community event hosted by a Chinese medicine association. A good friend invited me to visit their resource table, and while I came expecting warm conversation and cultural insights, I left with something more—an unexpected moment of reflection on connection and intention.

While I was chatting in front of their booth, a group of young Mormon missionaries caught my eye. Sent from Utah, they moved with quiet confidence from table to table, introducing themselves in fluent Mandarin. What was striking wasn’t just their language skills, but the intentional preparation behind their mission. Before arriving in Canada, they had studied Mandarin and Chinese culture—not just to communicate, but to truly connect.

Their goal was clear: to build relationships and invite others into their faith. But they did so by honoring culture first, with humility, patience, and respect. Though I may not share their beliefs, their example inspired me. It stirred reflection—about mission, ministry, and how we share what matters most.

Today, many churches try to draw people in by offering creative programs. And in some cases, it works. But far too often, especially for congregations with limited resources or vision, the effort becomes inward. The focus turns to keeping existing members entertained, rather than reaching beyond the walls.

It’s a hard truth, but one we need to name. Because Jesus didn’t commission the church to wait for people to come—He said, “Go.” Go into all the world. Be present. Build bridges. Cross cultures. Speak the language of others—not just linguistically, but with empathy, intentionality, and love.

And it’s not just the clergy who are called to go. This mission belongs to all of us. Lay leaders, members of the congregation, ordinary people with extraordinary stories and hearts—each of us has been commissioned to step out. To listen. To serve. To reach.

If we truly believe we have good news to share, then church—let’s go. Not just overseas, but across the street. Not just within our own culture, but across cultures. Let’s meet people where they are, with compassion, courage, and the readiness to engage.

I didn’t expect such a quiet afternoon to stir so much inside me. But I’m thankful it did.