I wish you could meet even a few of the people I have met over the years who had sacrificed their own ambitions in order to serve others in the name of Christ — often in very difficult or dangerous parts of the world. They could’ve lived very comfortable and successful lives here — but instead they devoted themselves to helping others, at great personal cost.

Why did they do it (and why do thousands like them continue in their footsteps)? They did it for one reason: They had given their lives to Jesus Christ, and they had discovered that life’s greatest joy comes from knowing Him and serving Him. They each could echo the words of the Apostle Paul: “For Christ’s love compels us … that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again” (2 Corinthians 5:14-15).

I know you may treat people like this with scorn — but don’t make the mistake of claiming they are “just in it for the money.” Nothing could be further from the truth. Not everyone is called to do what they do, of course — but when someone gives their life to Jesus Christ, they are never the same. Nor will you be.

I invite you — in fact, I challenge you — to look at Jesus Christ with an open heart and mind. When you do, you won’t only discover what an extraordinary person He was, but that He loves you and wants to change your life.