Listen:
“Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.” (Isaiah 1:17 NIV)
Reflect:
The Old Testament is full of verses like this one, sometimes including refugees, immigrants, or ‘the poor’. God asks his people to take special care and to act on behalf of those who are not able to provide for themselves.
Life gets full. Blessed with a large family and many friends, I try to be there for them in their troubles. Moving house and settling into a new place takes time and energy. We support people and charities who do amazing work. But, I have an increasing sense that God has work for me, and my church, to do in my town. He wants to direct His children to reach out to those who find themselves alone and without human support.
We see Jesus who loved to teach and heal women, children, outcasts and those looked down upon. In his parable of the sheep and goats he says that if we feed the hungry, welcome strangers into our home, clothe the naked, visit the sick and those in prison, we are doing those things to him and for him.
Recently I have heard stories of Christians reaching out with the practical love and message of Jesus. Lives are being miraculously transformed and churches are growing. This is happening in the very poorest areas of the UK.
I love this gentle challenge; ‘learn to do good’. God understands that it doesn’t always come naturally! He invites me to join His work of reaching out to the disadvantaged and vulnerable. To step out of my comfort zone with my hand in His and my heart leaning into His heart.
Prayer of Response:
Lord Jesus, whatever we do for those in need, we are doing for you. Holy Spirit please fill me and take me where I can reach others with the love of Jesus. Father God, you have shared your heart with us. Help us to live according to your love.
Questions to Ponder:
- Are you already working hard to help others? What is your motivation? Do you recognise that Jesus himself receives your love and how pleased God is that you share His heart for the poor?
- Do you need to take a look at your life and work out how you could change priorities so that you can learn to do this kind of good?
—Submitted by: Elaine Davis
A grandmother, retired. I live in Leamington Spa, near to two of my children and their families. I enjoy being creative, keeping up with old friends, and making new ones, supporting family, my local church, UK Lifesprings. and other charities. After pondering this verse all week, I am working on question 2.