Articles
A Mission of Generosity
When God’s truth is spread, what is the heart reflecting to others? The mission of God’s children is to demonstrate to others the love and teachings of His son, Jesus Christ. Proverbs 11:24 (ESV) says, “One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.” The more we accumulate wealth, the less it is going to sustain our heart’s desire for that prosperity. Mankind witnesses this all the time with tangible money and intangible power. Power and money can endlessly feed the desire for selfishness. Spiritually, we can also become selfish by holding tightly onto the blessings that God bestows.
The beginning of John chapter four, explains an encounter an adulterous Samaritan woman had with Jesus at a well while His disciples were getting food. At first, she is surprised that Jesus asked her for a drink of water because Jews wouldn’t associate with those they considered to be unclean. Jesus then began talking about the living waters that lead to eternal life and eventually reveals to her that He knows her sin because He is the Messiah. Jesus’ disciples then come back and were amazed that Jesus was talking to a woman. The woman then goes into town and explains to others how Jesus has changed her life. Soon after, the towns folk began seeking Jesus themselves. As a result, their faith transformed because they took efforts toward growing a personal relationship with Jesus.
In Revelation chapters two and three, Jesus is speaking to several churches and encouraging them to remain obedient followers. Then in Revelation 2:4-5 (ESV) He speaks to the church of Ephesus, “But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first.” God cherishes all people. Jesus proved this by talking to a woman who other people would have avoided. Jesus’ disciples also emphasized this because above all else they were astounded that Jesus was speaking to a woman. Let alone one whom they probably would have shunned. As present disciples of Christ, we have the opportunity to show God’s love to all His children. Are our hearts communicating that we have abandoned righteousness for the beliefs and idols of this world, or, are you giving to others the love and blessings of God?
