I have always associated September with fall, the changes of seasons, and cooler weather. Well, two out of three isn’t bad.
As I think about our ministries here at La Casa de Cristo, we often focus on the visible, but not the invisible hands of ministry. A meal cooked for a member who is a shut-in. A member who accompanies another member to the hospital or a doctor’s visit. A text sent inquiring how an old friend is doing. Staff members helping out another staff member who becomes ill or whose car breaks down.
“But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:3-4)
I think this passage is written to remind us that not all ministry done in Jesus’ name is visible. We often judge churches or non-profit organizations by nickels and noses, budgets and attendance, and how many gather for a particular event or ministry.
Our Lord looks at things differently. He doesn’t measure by earthly standards, but lifts up the poor widow’s coin as an example of the heart of the giver. He lifts up the widow, orphan and outcast as more fit for the kingdom than others. He tells us to do kind deeds in secret, not broadcast our efforts.
Why? Is this fair? Of course not! God is MORE than fair, he is gracious and merciful but slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love. And he asks of all of us to point beyond ourselves, our earthly metrics and measurements, into the math of the Kingdom.
How do we evaluate, ponder, and pray for things at and through La Casa de Cristo?
Food for thought.
Thanks be to God!
In Christ,
Pastor Jeff Ruby, Lead Pastor
