January 4th, 2021
1 John 3:16-18 “By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay dow our lives for the brothers. But if anyone has the worlds goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.”
The Big Picture
Let’s face it—Bringing “good news” to a city with unchurched people is daunting. The Kingdom assignment to care for the poor, fight injustice, and have a redemptive influence on society often seems like an impossible task. This passage challenges us to literally “put our money where our mouth is” and practice loving others by being generous with our resources. Open hands are a true indicator of an open heart.
What enables us to serve? Our best deeds and noblest intentions are still tainted by sin, but in Christ we have the perfect savior and servant. May we cling only to Jesus, who laid down his life for us. May we look to his faithfulness as we strive to lay down our lives for others. May we persevere with hope as we trust his promise to make all things new!
How To Pray
Pray that we would be a generous people to our Grace Fund to help others in need
Thank God for our partnership with our local schools and food pantries. Take some moments to pray for the families that we get to impact in our community.
Ask God, “What more can I do? How can I be generous with my time, treasure and talents in 2021?”