This week we kick off a campaign to raise awareness and funds for Turning Point, domestic violence shelter and services in Delaware County. While these passages do not specifically reference victims of domestic violence, they do speak to the plight of the most vulnerable in the first century. Victims of domestic violence are among the most vulnerable in our time. The call of Christ compels us to care.
PRAYER
Lord, as you have showered grace upon me and my family, so fill me with grace that I may extend mercy and compassion on others in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Monday – Matthew 25:31-46
What is fascinating about this story is that neither the righteous or the unrighteous recognized the King among the needy and vulnerable persons. However, the righteous responded to their needs regardless of who needed it or how legitimate their need was. Because of that, they discovered they were helping “the least of these brothers and sisters” of the King and doing it for Jesus, too. Who will cross your path today that is vulnerable and in need?
Tuesday – Luke 14:12-14
Jesus is teaching about humility. He is not against hosting friends for a backyard barbeque. What Jesus is pointing out is that real hospitality is to offer grace to those who cannot return the favor: the vulnerable and needy. What they cannot give you, God will provide in much greater measure. Who is vulnerable in your circle of acquaintances?
Wednesday – James 2:14-26
James is arguing the importance of works alongside faith. Faith without works is of no value at all. True faith will inevitably lead to works of grace and mercy, especially to the most vulnerable. What I have discovered is that faith without works soon becomes self-centered and self-absorbed. And works without faith becomes a dry meaningless duty. The two reinforce and reinvigorate each other. How do you demonstrate your faith?
Thursday – Mark 10:35-45
James and John asked Jesus for a favor. They wanted the special privilege of sitting next to Jesus when he ascended to his throne. You can imagine how the other disciples felt about this. But Jesus informed them that true leadership is first and foremost service. Jesus came to serve others. Jesus’ followers will also serve others. How will you serve in Jesus’ name today?
Friday – Luke 6:35-38
The gracious and generous lifestyle of Jesus’ followers extends to even enemies. For the grace and generosity we offer to others is what will returned to us: “pressed down, shaken together, and running over.” We are not to offer this to only people we know, but to everyone – even those who disagree with us or seem least deserving to use. What grace have your received that God wants to pass on to others through you?
Saturday – Ephesians 2:1-10
Paul describes the work of God’s Holy Spirit to offer grace to all who dare to believe. But grace is a gift. No one can earn it or buy it or inherit it. But the reason for the grace is not so we can sit on fluffy clouds wearing diapers and playing small harps. The gift of grace is to free us to do good works in Jesus’ name to bless others. We are blessed to be a blessing to others. How has God blessed you? And how will God use you to bless others today?