Belief Without a Life of Good Works is Useless
OPENING PRAYER:
Dear Jesus, help me to see ways that I can serve those around me. Amen.
READ:
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” (Matthew 25:35-40)
REFLECT:
Most of us, when we do something that’s hard or something we’re proud of, want recognition or reward. The earthly economy is this way, do good and get rewarded, work hard and get paid. The heavenly economy is not like this though, it’s an upside-down kingdom. In the scriptures above Jesus is talking about taking a humble posture and serving those around us. When we do this, we are being kingdom workers serving in the name of Jesus. The point of these verses is Jesus teaching us to serve without the thought of a reward. God is not in the handing-out- trophies business. There is no merit here, God only hands out grace.
APPLY:
How can you examine your actions this week and take a posture of humility by serving. It could look like picking someone up a cup of coffee on the way to the office, encouraging a friend who is going through a tough time or maybe even taking a risk and getting involved with serving in worship service. Try and be aware of opportunities to serve as you go throughout your week, chances are there are ways you can if you take notice.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, help me to walk in humility and serve those around me. Amen.
WORSHIP: