How the worship bulletin is designed, where the baptismal font is placed, who gets to choose the hymns — these are only important issues to those who have no real understanding of the gospel. Those who reduce our faith to such insignificant issues are those who have no real desire to be the body of Christ — laity or clergy. How to make a difference in the world, how to save a person’s self respect and dignity, making sure a person has a safe place to sleep or a warm meal — these are the things our faith tells us God is interested in...
The reason this came to mind is a short email I received last week that asked me the question, “Why are you so dedicated to helping people who don’t live good lives, when there are so many good Christians that need comfort and care?” I don’t know how to answer this questions. Those who are Christian have got it all. The people who need us are the whole reason we exist! I can’t waste time dealing with coddled malcontents. My ministry is to the lost, the damaged, the sick, and the oppressed. I thought that was what it was all about…
Cranky Christians? I’m trying to love. The world? I wish I loved it better. My goal? To make those who know Jesus care more about those who don’t.
3 comments:
I hope and pray the move is a good one! God's blessings on your ministry and the wonderful work you do.
Beth, My answer to the question of why I am so interested in those who are in need, is that I want to make certain that at least one person is concerned. Most often the ones who ask such question are not concerned. If they were they would not have to ask. If they were concerned then maybe I would not feel so needed in that arena and could focus on others.
....Those who are Christian have got it all. The people who need us are the whole reason we exist! I can’t waste time dealing with coddled malcontents. My ministry is to the lost, the damaged, the sick, and the oppressed. I thought that was what it was all about…
Beth,
You nailed it! Dead Solid Perfect!
Jesus once answered this same questions and said that a well person doesn't need a doctor, but a sick person does. (Mk 2:17)
A saved person may be going thru a very tough time in life and need support from strong Christians, but no matter how bad, it is no comparison to the condition that the lost are in, and most don't even know it. As Christians, we are soldiers in a Great War. We have to rescue as many souls from the clutches of the Enemy as we can.
Your answer shows great understanding of that fact.
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