Jesus was resolute in His mission of bringing salvation to humanity.

Three weeks ago my family were in Taiwan for a short holiday. While in Taipei, we stayed at YMCA. We chose to stay there as it is within walking distance from Taipei Main Station, where we could reach anywhere easily. The rooms are clean and basic, and the rates are affordable, considering it’s in the heart of the city and proximity to their transportation hub.

Jesus resolutely set his face towards Jerusalem (Luke 9: 51)

While staying there, we learned that on Sunday mornings, there is a church worship service taking place in one of their large halls located in the basement. In fact, on the day we were there, their choir was having their weekly practice. Their melodious voices reverberated throughout the first and second floors.
Since its founding in 1844, YMCAs can be found in many cities around the world. The goal of the founders was to put Christian principles into practice, achieved by developing “a healthy spirit, mind and body.” To do that, they gave strong emphasis on Bible study as a means of developing a healthy spirit and mind.
Sadly, in many places the organization has turned almost completely secular. Nevertheless, in recent times, the organization has sought to return to the original mission. There are now attempts to “share the good news of Jesus Christ and striving for spiritual, intellectual and physical well-being of individuals and wholeness of communities”.
There is a cautionary tale for all of us here. A movement or a ministry can start out with the goal of reaching others for Christ. But if that vision and mission are not emphasized or if they are neglected for too long, it would soon lose its original objective.
Jesus was resolute in His mission of bringing salvation to humanity. These words Jesus resolutely set his face towards Jerusalem (Luke 9: 51) serve to remind us of keeping to the mission no matter what. As we enter into the second half of this year let us continue to serve the Lord with gladness and resolution.