Help the Helpless

Jesus told his disciples, "I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
Matthew 28:18-20 New Living Translation

"Go and announce to them that the Kingdom of Heaven is near. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cure those with leprosy, and cast out demons. Give as freely as you have received!"
Matthew 10:7-8 New Living Translation

Over the last week, these two passages have impacted my life more than they have in the past, or so it seems. I have felt like there is more to be done. More than just what we already do as a church in our community. When we look at all we do as a church and as a congregation, it never ceases to amaze me just how much we do. We live out all that Jesus has commanded us to do.

The Hymn "Freely, freely," found on page 389 in our hymnals, has its roots in these two scriptures. We sing, "He said: 'Freely, freely, you have received, Freely, freely give; Go in My name, and because you believe Others will know that I live.'" But have we let it impact our lives the way Jesus has meant it to? Have we freely accepted the gift he has given to us? Or have we just said we believe and act as if we genuinely care about those we are interacting with as a church body? I can only speak about what I know and what I have seen. This church changes lives; it has helped many in our community in different ways. We have fed the hungry, helped with clothes, and found shelter for those in need. We have helped in many ways, and we hold faithful to the teachings of Jesus.

Let God's love flow through you to this world. Be the light God has made you to be. Never give up hope for a better day. Remember that God has called the broken and the lost people to hope and forgiveness—many blessings.