The Back Porch

It’s very important to know why Christians serve (or should serve) those in need.  Many believe we are insincere when we help others because, in the end, we hope to introduce Jesus and not simply give physical help.

What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him?  If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?  So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. – James 2:14-17

I’d like to make two points to clarify our service:

First – God-implanted, true, salvific faith produces amazing fruit – a new person.  This “born again” person does not hesitate to connect kind thoughts with the appropriate action.  The two are virtually one.  My wish for someone to be fed and clothed is made real through giving them food and clothing.  No longer are we driven to hoard earthly commodities as if they are essential to life (Matt 6).  We can give away our money, possessions, time, and energy knowing that the owner of life itself will take care of us.

Second – To be satisfied with only feeding the hungry and clothing the naked is shallow and unloving when we know the One who gives a deeper healing and joy in the middle of life’s pain.  In addition to having money, possessions, time, and energy to share with those in need, we know the One who gives eternal life.

Those who feel we are less than honorable when we desire to share Jesus with the many who have great physical need don’t know the hope, healing, and joy he brings.