Churches in Hong Kong have many ministries, whether it is for children, youth, family, elderly and even people with special needs. It seems we have given out a lot, but its effect on the growth of Christian population is not obvious. I believe the key is not how much resource we have put in evangelistic ministry, but whether we have done well in follow up, cultivating and disciple training so that after one accepted Christ he/she can grow healthy spiritually.
Listen! My beloved! Look! Here he comes, leaping across the mountains, bounding over the hills. (Song of Songs 2:8)
Jesus called the first generation disciples, “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” (Mark 1:17) It is a calling that is full of vision and invitation. In Song of Songs symbolized in God’s eyes, we are His beloved and beauty, we are first loved, being appreciated. We are being praised and even being invited to walk and work with God. God let us choose. We do not force people to believe in Jesus, but to let people discover the beauty and kindness of Jesus so that they will willingly follow Him and love Him.
Show me your face, let me hear your voice; for your voice is sweet, and your face is lovely. (Song of Songs 2:14b)
In Song of Songs we discover that we are being eagerly courted by name above all names--creator of this earth. He is desperately eager to meet with us and listen to our voice. When I read the essence of the Word, I discover myself (all the people) are so much valued by God. In His heart, each life is very precious! But He is not forcing us or manipulating us to respond to His love, He just requests us, and express his deep hope towards us. May God help us to live out this love of God to men, which is better than any love on this earth.
Where has your beloved gone, most beautiful of women? Which way did your beloved turn, that we may look for him with you? (Song of Songs 6:1)
I remember once Pastor Philip and his wife went to a restaurant to eat breakfast. When they paid the bill that waitress told to them that “you are very temperamental!” In fact they have not said much to her, but she has such an evaluation. I believe if we really follow God and allow Him to mode our life and character, we will naturally flow out the aroma and beauty of Jesus, which will be discovered by our nonbeliever friends. So I told that waitress, we believe in Jesus and it is He that has changed us.
Dear brothers and sisters, bless your life. May people around you discover the beloved in your life. And may you and your beloved are so close that your life is full of aroma of Christ!
