Verse of the Day - Matthew 5:14

Matthew 5:14

[Jesus says,] "You are the light of the world -- like a city on a mountain, glowing in the night for all to see." (NLT)
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The fuller passage says this:

“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. ~ Matthew 5:14-16

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al·tru·ism /ˈæltruˌɪzəm/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[al-troo-iz-uhm] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation
–noun
1. the principle or practice of unselfish concern for or devotion to the welfare of others (opposed to egoism).

There are many people in this world who do good deeds. Many worthy causes are supported by those who care enough to step in and make a difference.

` Abandoned and mistreated animals are cared for through programs, such as the ASPCA, by those who have a heart for our furry friends who can't speak for themselves.

` Women Escaping A Violent Environment (WEAVE) is a very vital program that works to protect and assist victims of domestic violence, by those who have a heart for women (and their children) in family distress.

` Union Gospel Mission works hard to provide the homeless food, clothing, shelter, counseling and hope through Jesus Christ, by those who have a heart for the forgotten on our streets.

I can't tell you what the deep motives are for all who participate in these charity organizations. Do all know and love God? Most likely not. But I believe that compassion comes from God, because He is the "Father of compassion and the God of all comfort." (2 Corinthians 1:3, NIV) He helps the needy by working through people, and sometimes they don't even know they're being used of God.

But what about believers in Christ? Are we out there in the world, shining light on Christ by doing good deeds, as the Word says? Do we get our hands dirty by being in the mix, or do we just sit in our pews and let others do the "dirty work"? Is our light simply bouncing off cathedral ceilings, or lighting up the night sky?

And when we do get off our keesters and decide to obey the Lord by serving the community, how will they know that it is the Lord who spurs us on, and not just altruistic behavior with no spiritual foundation? How will they "praise your Father in heaven", if they don't know you have a Father in heaven?

Well, sure, we could ram it down their throats about God and Jesus and the Bible when we offer help to the needy, but somehow I think they would choke on it and possibly give them a long-lasting bad taste in their mouths. Or, we can care for the needy with kindness and compassion, and as relationships build and communication is established, allow our testimony of what Christ has done for the world and for our individual souls can surface, like the smell of fresh-baked bread. And who's mouth doesn't water when they smell fresh-baked bread?

In many respects, I think that evangelical churches have abdicated their responsibility to those in need, as declared in God's word. But today is a new day, and we can always start fresh when the sun comes up, praise God! Ask Him to spur your heart and mind to where He would have you serve...is there a neighbor that needs their leaves raked?...could someone use a hot meal who has been ill?...how about rallying some friends (believers or not) and committing to working at a homeless shelter? And when you do, you can simply share that the Lord Jesus has changed your life and given you love and compassion for other people.

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. ~ 1 Peter 3:15-16

2008 is quickly approaching, and this week is often a time of reflection, as we ponder our lives, what we've done with them, what can we do better. May we be willing in this next year to shine brightly for our communities, letting people know that they can know God through Jesus Christ -- God, who is full of love and grace, compassion and comfort.

Love,
Joelene