Jesus makes it pretty clear that loving others is not an option. There is a lot of pain in the world. He expects us to help meet the needs of those around us who are hurting (physically, emotionally, spiritually). Saint James said that words alone are not enough. We have to back up our faith with action. There is a good quote that says, “The world doesn’t need more words. The world needs more words made flesh.” How true.
What is the mission? It has been said that the Church exists to equip and mobilize men and women for God’s mission in the world. That says a lot. But what is this mission? The mission is described all through the Bible.
Isaiah 58 expresses the mission like this: “Free those who are wrongly imprisoned; lighten the burden of those who work for you. Let the oppressed go free, and remove the chains that bind people. Share your food with the hungry, and give shelter to the homeless. Give clothes to those who need them, and do not hide from relatives who need your help.”
Micah 6:8 says, “People, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Sounds like some social justice issues might be a part of this mission.
Jesus identifies personally with this mission. He stated clearly, “For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.” (Matthew 25:35-36) Wow. Jesus says if we help the down and out it’s the same as doing it for him. Our eternal destiny depends on how we deal with those that are in need all around us.
Jesus also talked a lot about a mysterious kingdom. He described a kingdom where everything is completely different from the kingdoms we know about. He talks about those that are the least being the greatest and the last being first. He told us to pray for this kingdom to come upon the earth. He even said that this kingdom is among you. This kingdom is among us. When we help take care of each other, we begin to see this new kingdom take shape.
Isn’t this just social work? Maybe, if it is not done with the love of God pouring through us. Receiving a simple act of kindness may be the closest someone ever comes to God. ARK simply provides opportunities to be the hands and feet of God. It just might help change lives and hearts… including our own.
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