From the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), to the bold statements in James 2 about faith and actions, our soul begs us to ask the question; What good is my faith?

A handful of years ago, there was a short kid with a small frame that entered my classroom. His image would make you cold as you noticed the thin layer of insulation between his skin and his bones. His hair was overgrown, but managed by his hands and finger tips.  He was wearing a pair of glasses that bent out wide to reach his ears. Research would show they were the same pair he was given in 2nd grade through a state vision program. He wore the same shirt and pants everyday, and never a coat. His catching appearance was matched by his consistent attendance. He never missed a school day or a free lunch

This very real story paints an image of boy in need. However, it is the educational quandary that I would like to dissect and then transfer into our lives. There was an educational economy that expected him to show up, teachers to teach, him to learn, and society to grow. However, somewhere along the line, the reality of life sunk in. His mom was in a mental hospital, his dad was a drunk who urinated on him when he came home in his stupor. With no clean clothes to change into, he would go to school and slowly face the onslaught of adolescent vicisousness and teacher fatigue. The result was a passive-aggressive coping mechanism that led to multiple suspensions and a long term confinement to “the bad school.” It was only here he found a currency exchange that replaced the academic curriculum with service passion. He was given a his only meal of the day at school, his clothes were washed periodically, and he was surrounded by God’s love. This was not a government initiative, but a Godly passion held by a great administrator. She surrounded herself with teachers that cared more than they were required to, loved more than the were expected to, and gave more than they had to.

This should not be the exception in life, because it is the mandate of life. The purpose of your faith and belief is to create closeness with God the radiates a servanthood, which transcends busy schedules, routines, and norms. We are taught not to judge the intent of a person, but the fruit they bear (Matthew 7). However, when it comes to education or even personal servanthood, we seem to claim to the notion, “It’s the thought that counts.” Let me reassure you, it is not the thought that counts. Thoughts don’t clothe, feed, or love a person. To believe in God and pursue him with passion is more than an emotional or cerebral connection. It is only fleshed out through the fruit of our efforts towards humanity.

As we have been challenged by the recent messages from James, I challenge you to become involved in the following activities. However, my challenge should be squandered by God’s call on your heart to USE YOUR FAITH!

Connect to the Outreach Resources Page to see where you can begin your journey!!

Chance