Slideshow image

Why do we do what we do? What is the purpose of our actions? As we look at the world around us, we see many good deeds at this time of year. In the church where I serve, I see people who are willing to give all year round and it is awesome to see and be a part of. 
Yet, many see this time of year as a brief opportunity to drop some change in a bucket or a toy in a box to be given away. As followers of Christ, the call to reach the hurting and those in need is not seasonal. Not to judge, but I wonder if we give a little charity this time of year to ease our conscience or to be seen as a good person? 
In my devotions, I was in the book of Romans. In chapter 12 we see a powerful challenge to all of us who call Jesus Lord. Verses 9-13, "Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; 11 not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, 13 contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality." In the ESV, it reads "Let love be genuine." Now I realize that the ability to give is easier for some than others. This is not the point, the point is that whatever we do for others is to be genuine. When we say that we love brothers and sisters, it should be genuine. For us, the church, loving one another should never be something that we have to force ourselves to do. 
Now granted, some are easier to love than others, but that should not keep us from striving to love better, to love genuinely. We also see a challenge to put others before ourselves. As I am writing this a couple in the church is bringing me lunch. I didn't ask them to, and I'm pretty sure they didn't lose a bet to have to do this. No, they are doing this out of love and appreciation of the relationship the Lord is allowing us to have. Now that the bar is set, I also do dinner and all kinds of snacks. In all seriousness, what we do for others should never be a task or a chore, but something we desire to do because it not only is a blessing to those we help, but it will be a blessing to us. 
As Christmas approaches, let us remember that our compassion for others should not be limited to this season. Instead, let our love for one another be genuine so that all who witness it will desire to be a part of this amazing family we call the church.