Good Works

Several years ago a fire destroyed a church in my town. The fire raged through the night, and firemen worked for more than 13 hours to contain it. The next day’s newspaper featured an article about the fire. In the story, the church’s pastor described how members of his congregation felt: ‘Our members are devastated, but we know we will rebuild our church.’

Soon after the newspaper story, people from the community began donating money, furniture, musical instruments and other items to the congregation. Within two years, a brand new church had been built. Once again, the local newspaper covered the story, and it quoted church members who thanked the community for its outpouring of donations. ‘I am amazed at the goodwill and love people have shared with us,’ one of them said.

God’s word encourages us to do good deeds and to show kindness toward others. Christ loved us so much that he gave his life for us. Through our works of love and kindness, we express our love for Christ and show that we belong to him.

Prayer: Dear Lord, teach us how to share your gift of love with others. Give us courage to respond to the needs of your people. Amen