Who is my neighbour, where’s the love?
That speaks for those our world has lost,………Martin Smith, Delirious?
Feed the hungry, give the thirsty a drink, welcome the stranger, clothe the naked, take care of the sick and visit the prisoner.
These were the last instructions that Jesus gave to his followers, his last teachings before the events that led to his death unfolded. Is there something poignant in that? (see Matthew 25-26).
God in the OT and Jesus, Paul, Peter and James in the NT have given us clear instructions on how to treat the poor, needy, widows, orphans, strangers, aliens and prisoners. There is little doubt that God has a heart for those in need.
In the Bible there are over 31000 verses and recently the Bible Society revealed that over 2000 of these refer to God’s views on poverty and justice, the highest concentration being 1 in every 7 verses in the Gospels!
So what can we do to reach this world that’s lost, who are our neighbours? Well there are many, fine Christian charities working with those in need in the developing world but what about here in Norn Iron or to be more specific in our homeland of East Belfast? 2006 statistics for the Province reveal that 1 in 5 adults and over a quarter of children live in low income conditions!
Well our group, “Doing it for Him”, feel led to bring comfort for those who really need it, the poor, the single parents, the needy pensioners. God willing by following his instructions we can reach these “neighbours” with His love.
Jim
2 comments:
It's a good point that we never really think about acting on behalf of, and for the good of, the poor and needy in our areas. Thanks 4 the reminder of our calling Jim. Will you post when ideas come Kitchy or will the vision just be shared here?
i NEED to start getting involved in stuff like this!! ive bin real challenged lately. I dont think its even a case of "Im going to choose to start helping the needy" rather that in response to what God has given us that we NEED to get invovled. .. Like simple things liek turning the tap and water comes out, flick a switch and energy comes out of plug!! what!!! we are so blessed!, anything i can do, count me in jimbo!
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