Compassion into Action: The Power of Community
My dad was not a wealthy man. In fact, he would most likely be classified as poor; but he taught me that we must care for those who are in need. He not only talked a good talk, but he put it into practice many times as I was growing up. In Matthew 6, Jesus talks about giving to the needy. He said, “So, when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.”
I can truthfully say that Mt. Bethel Church follows the Scripture when it comes to giving to those who are in need. A few months ago, one of our members became very ill and has now been in the hospital for four months. As a result, they have not been able to work.
Our Care Team knew of the problems facing this person because one of the pastors had asked the individual if there was any need. We learned there was a great need; the person had a house payment, utilities, insurance, and all the expenses that go along with being a homeowner. Word of this member’s need was shared, and several people began to contribute to the Compassion Fund to help cover the person’s expenses. Through the generosity of other members, this member was able to focus on their health without the worries of how their financial obligations would be met.
We are a great community that has been blessed economically and spiritually. God has given us a trust, a blessing from His hands. Paul reminded us in 1 Corinthians 4:2, “Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” Our trust is in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but it also includes our resources. Remember, we are called to give our all to Him and His purposes. It is also required we be faithful and to love others as He has loved us.
I visited the person recently, and they commented to me how blessed they feel to be part of a caring community that came to their aid at a critical time. This individual wanted some printed material from the church so they could share their community of faith with those who were ministering to them.
“For God so love the world that He gave…” This is the challenge for us as His disciples. Give yourself to those who are hurting, those who are in physical and spiritual need, and those who are alone and need a friend. May God bless us as we do His work in the community and the world.
We are indeed a community of very blessed people.
You can give to the Compassion Fund at the altar on Communion Sunday (first Sunday of the month) or by giving online here (select Compassion Fund).