Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
July 5, 2023
James 2:14-17
14 My brothers and sisters, what good is it if people say they have faith but do nothing to show it? Claiming to have faith can’t save anyone, can it? 15 Imagine a naked brother or sister who never has enough food to eat. 16 What if one of you said, “Go in peace! Stay warm! Have a nice meal!”? What good is it if you don’t actually give them what their body needs? 17 In the same way, faith is dead when it doesn’t result in faithful activity.
Good Morning; Summer has arrived!
The past few days have been hot and humid. These are the days when I catch myself longing for cooler temperatures, and then I laugh because I remember the cold days when I long for warmer temperatures. It seems we are always wishing for things that we don’t have.
James, the brother of Jesus, spent his ministry teaching us that accepting Christ as our Lord and Savior isn’t enough. We have been given a great gift that requires our response and interaction. This gift isn’t a collector item that grows in value if it remains in its packaging and sits on a shelf. God’s gift is for all and grows by sharing it with others. Like the servant who buried the talent given to him by his master out of fear, we will not receive blessings on our gifts which remain hidden.
Living a life of faith is more than attending church, reading the Bible, and praying to God. When we accept our gift of eternal life, we are called to follow Christ and to be Christ for the world. You might say, “I don’t know how to be Christ for the world!”
The how is simple! We are to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, love our neighbors as ourselves, and use our gifts to share Christ as he taught us during his time on earth. If you have the gift of listening, place yourself where you can listen. If you have the gift of gardening, share your harvest with others. Whatever your gift, use it and share it with others.
When you freely share yourself (your time, gifts, and love), others will see Christ within you. This is how we are the face of Christ for the world. Not for one hour on Sunday mornings, but 24/7. They will know we are Christians by our love.
Loving God, We thank you for Your blessings. We are afraid to share the Good News with others. Help us unwrap the gift of love and grace that you have given us. We Thank You! In the name of Christ, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: Opportunities to help those in need are all around me.
Share your gifts! Pastor Liz
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