Thursday, April 07, 2005
Service
The Blessing of Service
Most of us find it easier to remember things when we can associate or link new information to the body of knowledge we already possess. With this fact in mind, let's look at 1 John 3:16-24 and James 2:14-19.
Both writers make it clear that where there is no pain, we'll have no gain. As Christians, we must demonstrate our love for one another by sacrificial service. What matters is what we do rather than what we say. Wishing someone well is not enough--no matter how pious we may sound. We are obligated to act for their benefit, and if such action causes us some uncertainty or inconvenience due to changes that must be made or carries some cost in time or money, then we are to gladly suffer such "pain" as a demonstration of our love and the Spirit of God who is in us. James and John join Nike in shouting "JUST DO IT!"
We have heard the expression, "use it, or lose it." But have we realized that this applies to our faith? James tells us,"...faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action is dead." And so also is our salvation. Good works will save no one. But a viable faith is one that results in works--—and that means service. Indeed, John explains that when we sometimes experience momentary doubts about our salvation we should analyze our acts of service as a measurement of our spiritual health. Interestingly enough, he seems to sense that the more actively engaged for Christ
we are the more glaring our shortcomings will appear to us. Therefore, he offers us the reassurance that God (much more than Bo Jackson) knows everything, including our hearts.
Our Lord came to serve and to give and told us to do likewise. In our congregation everyone is given many opportunities to share their wealth of money, time, and talents. Let's take advantage of this fact and begin to utilize our blessings more fully.
