Tragedy, Part 2

It seems that our community and surrounding communities have been inundated with even more tragedies since I last made a post on the blog. I am sure that tragedy is not just in this part of the world but that people all over the world are facing their share of troubling circumstances. What should be the response of the believers? Our initial response should be one of prayerful and thoughtful concern as we survey the landscape and realize that people are in need of divine intervention. But there will come a time and I believe that God will present the opportunity to move beyond prayerful and thoughtful concern. Each of us will be given the opportunity to put our words and thoughts of concern into action. It may be as simple as providing a meal for a neighborhood family who is enduing a battle with illness or they may have encountered a death in their immediate family. We may be given an opportunity to drive across town and help someone clean up from storm damage or the Pastor may call for a work day at the local church to make some needed repairs on the church building or some needed repairs on a home in the community. When the opportunity arises we need to be prepared to spring into action and share the "love of God" through the act of serving one another.

 

"Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth." 1 John 3:18

 

"Actions born out of love speak like a megaphone of compassion to those in need. Words of concern are empty unless they are backed by involved behavior. A need does not necessitate a call, but Christ's love  compels us to engage in another’s messy situation. Love does what is necessary to bring hope and healing to those who feel hopeless and hurt. Those moved from within by the Spirit initiate intimacy. They are a solution looking for a problem."

 

Will you be willing to make a positive statement to your family and community today by taking action to assist someone in need?