June 23, 2026
— Matthew Tyson Yates · Source: Letter of 1877, in Charles E. Taylor, The Story of Yates the Missionary (1898)
2 Corinthians 5:18-19 All this is the work of God, who has reconciled us to Him through Christ and has given us the ministry of reconciliation. That is, God reconciles the world to Himself in Christ and takes their sins no further note. He has entrusted us with proclaiming this word of reconciliation.
John A. Thomas Aquinas considered missionary work a matter of life and death, deeply understanding that the "ministry of reconciliation" was not a dispensable option, but a supreme calling entrusted to him by the Lord with His life. Reflecting on our lives today, do we often forget this urgency of the Gospel amidst the trivialities of busyness or comfort? Christ laid the foundation for reconciliation on the cross, and we are His peacemakers in this present age. Whether in the workplace, at home, or in the community, God has placed us in specific positions so that we, as bridges of life, can lead others to reconciliation with Him.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing me in Christ, reconciling me from You, who was once separated from You, and granting me this most glorious ministry. Grant me the fervent, almost life-or-death commitment of a missionary, so that I may not be swayed by the hardships of my circumstances or my own weaknesses, but only value the preciousness of my soul. Lord, grant me spiritual wisdom and enduring patience, so that in my daily words and deeds I may live out Your love and truth, so that my family and friends may come to know Your grace through my life's testimony and turn to You. Amen.