We, as a church, are gearing up to spend 7 days in the El Paso area on a mission trip. I am really excited about how this trip is coming together. There are people signed up for this trip who have never been on a trip like this. I think this experience will be life-changing for all involved.
We finished up a study on the book of James a couple of months ago. The overall thrust of that book in the Bible deals with living out our faith. Mission trips are a great way to do just that – getting out of our comfort zone and doing for others; not for what we get out of it but rather for what we can give.
If we truly have faith in God, then the outflow of that faith should, no must be compassion for others. The Bible says that if we say we love God but it doesn’t show in our actions toward others then we are liars. Hey, I didn’t say it! Look at it here.
If we have real faith, it will affect how we relate to those around us. It will come out in love. Is it possible to serve others without this faith? Sure – its called social work and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that – in fact, it is one of the most honorable and rewarding career paths I know.
Is it possible to have faith and no visible outflow of compassion toward others? Some say it is – it looks like legalism and empty spirituality. Based on the Bible, I don’t think it is possible to have an authentic faith and not have visible signs of that faith acted out in the way we relate to others. Now is it possible to get so wrapped up in our lives and in good things and neglect the best thing? Sure. In fact, I think that is what is wrong with the Church (big C) today.
I believe if our lives are to be full and meaningful and if the Church is to grow and flourish, we have to refocus our lives on living out our faith on a daily basis.
What does that look like on a practical level in your life? I would love to hear your comments.
Clay in the Hands 
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