As many prepare to go out on mission trips this summer, let’s keep in mind this very important fact: people need Jesus.

People need food. They need clean water. They need shelter. They need clothing. These are basic needs that we as Christians should help communities be able to provide.

But let’s never forget that people need Jesus. Water, food, shelter, clothing… they’ll never fix people’s real problems. The deep hungering need our world has is for a Savior, not stuff.

In a society of tolerance, it’s easier to avoid the tension that talking about spiritual needs creates. In a materialistic society, it’s easier to win approval by tending to material needs. In a pluralistic society, it’s easier to avoid talking about someone who claimed to be the only way to God.

But the unique mission of the church is to proclaim Jesus: his sacrifice, his Lordship, his Kingdom.

Failing to do so is the ultimate act of selfishness.