Living out our faith through actions is more important than we may think. My friend Pastor Richard is passionate about this. Over the years, he has carried out projects beyond his church’s resources and has made unconventional decisions such as closing his church on Easter Sunday to volunteer with the biggest men’s shelter in New York City. He brought food for the shelter and served communion to men on the streets of Brooklyn.
During Hurricane Sandy, his congregation fed and provided clothing for more than 2,500 people. It took three large U-haul trucks and six vans to haul all the goods to the location.
At Christmas, his church hosted a luncheon for 40 unaccompanied children. These kids are apprehended by the Department of Homeland Security and transferred to the care and custody of the Office of Refugees Resettlement. These children are vulnerable to human trafficking, exploitation and abuse. Pastor Richard wanted to ensure that these kids were not forgotten and felt loved. Volunteering money and time doesn’t matter to him. It’s the opportunity to meet the needs of others with love and compassion as Christ always does for us.
When our words match our actions, we bear witness to our Christian faith. Jesus said:
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
What are some of the ways you or your church lives out your faith? Please share with us.
Lord, let us be Your light in our world today that is in need of Your love and hope.
