A Reflection On Community

When I want to share in the work of helping others

Rarely in Scripture is God’s work between Him and only one person. He works through community. His Word defines us as His body—many parts working together as one whole—and He works through the church to reach a needy world.

What does the church do with our needy ones? Sometimes we criticize them for being needy. Sometimes we tell them to go to Jesus themselves. Sometimes we even tell them to get help first, and then they’ll be suitable for meeting Jesus. We miss the whole point.

God’s purpose in this world is to display His glory. Sometimes that is for one or two people to see, but usually not. Usually, He wants as many people as possible to observe His answers to prayer. Usually, He wants as many as possible to hear His stories of deliverance. Usually, He wants people who come to Him to be brought by others who believe in Him. This is our work—carrying our wounded to Jesus in faith, so that we all give praise to God.

Some people brought to him a paralyzed man on a mat. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “Be encouraged, my child! Your sins are forgiven.”

Matthew 9:2