Digging Deeper

Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. This then is how we know that we belong to the truth, and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence whenever our hearts condemn us. For God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything.  1 John 3:18-20

“Talk is cheap.” We’ve all heard or used this phrase, and most of us have probably been on the receiving end of empty promises and idle vows.

I am reminded of the song “Mercy in Me” by Todd Agnew.  In it, the narrator encounters a homeless man.  He acknowledges that he could buy the man lunch, but doesn’t because he hasn’t got enough to buy lunch for them both.  So instead, he prays for more for himself.  He comes upon a young mother who needs clothes.  He keeps his old clothes and tells her he’ll pray for her.

While prayers are crucial, we are also directed to take action as much as we’re able.  This action typically involves sacrifice of some sort.  In the case of the song, it’s a missed lunch so someone else may eat, or a few less choices in the closet so someone else may be warm.

In our daily lives, the sacrifices we’re able to make are small when compared to the impact they can have on the lives of others and for the kingdom of God.

A great example of love in action is coming this weekend.  We have over 80 families that will be coming to the Ridge for the Car Winterization.  Each of us has some part to play, and when all of our small sacrifices of time, talent, and food come together, it results in a massive outpouring of love for our brothers and sisters.

Here is a link to the Todd Agnew song I mentioned, Mercy in Me.

Lord, thank you for the riches you have poured on me so that I may share with those in need.  Help me to remember to put the needs of others in front of my own as my actions speak louder than my words.

Read: Matthew 5:1-16

Jeanne Roberts