Jump In 3-6-23

This message took on even more meaning to me this weekend. The kids of my church performed a musical “CALLED” about using the gifts that God has given each of us. How are we called to serve others? How can we use our gifts for the glory of the kingdom? How can we be a beacon to others showing the love of God?

Life is full of unexpected problems and needs, large and small. Pay attention to moments when God calls you to action, no matter how ordinary or extraordinary the situation may be. See “disruptions” as invitations to share Christ’s love. Write a note. Visit the sick or the grieving. Share a meal. 

We should always be observing what is going on around us.  By paying attention to people around you, you may find an opportunity to serve someone in a way you did not plan. it is so important to express our love for each other not only with words, but also with our actions. When we show our love through our actions, it is much easier to be sure that we are living a life that is true to God’s teachings. A life in which we can be confident and proud when we stand before God.

James 2:14-17 certainly brings an important truth to light – faith is not just about believing in something, but it’s about action. We cannot just say we have faith, but we need to live it out. Faith without action is useless. To truly demonstrate our faith, we need to show it with our deeds. We need to help and serve our brothers and sisters in need. We need to do whatever we can to provide for their needs, even if it’s just offering a kind word or a listening ear. It’s through these actions that our faith comes to life and demonstrates the love of God to the world.

Think about the Parable of the Good Samaritan.  The Priest simply walks by on the opposite side of the road.  Why didn’t he stop and help the injured man?  I’m sure he was on his way to do something.  Funeral, Wedding, home visit?  I’m sure he had a very busy schedule.  We all have full days as well.  We are called to serve others.  God puts things in front of us so that we can help others.  However, many times we ignore or don’t pay attention and walk right by them.  We see these events as distractions, but we should see them as opportunities to serve.  How many times has the phone rung, a random email shows up or someone walks into your office unplanned.  We should pay attention to this, can it wait, or does it need our immediate attention?  That person may need your attention immediately.  They may have an issue that needs your help.  They may need someone to listen to them.  If the situation can wait, then inform the person of a time and day you can speak with them, otherwise take the time right then to listen.  This situation is where God wants you to be.  You can take this opportunity to serve someone.  You can work a little later and get your to-do list done.  What we think are distractions can actually be opportunities that God has put in front of us on purpose.

“O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6: 8)

“What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well” – but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.” (James 2: 14 – 17)

“Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions. Our actions will show that we belong to the truth, so we will be confident when we stand before God.” (1 John 3: 18)

JUMP IN. Life is full of unexpected problems and needs, large and small. Pay attention to moments when God calls you to action, no matter how ordinary or extraordinary the situation may be. See “disruptions” as invitations to share Christ’s love. Write a note. Visit the sick or the grieving. Share a meal.

 Ideas for Action: Take Ownership.  Take your Authority.  How can you contribute more to a group you belong to?  How can you help another group?  Practice one of the actions listed in this week’s description: Write a note, visit someone who lives alone, and/or share a meal.

Prayer: Dear Lord, please help me pay attention to the “distractions” that happen every day and let me see that they may in fact be opportunities to serve you, and your children. Please grant me the perception to slow down and put my to-do list aside to serve others.