Hard question: Are you the church, or are you just attending the church? Each of us must self-analyze where we stand and most importantly what actions we take, or fail to take. The brother of Jesus told us, be doers of the word, and not hearers only, (Jam 1:22). Jesus said, Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. (Mat 7:21).
We are indeed saved by grace through faith, not by works (see Eph 2:8-9). But works are the evidence of a correct response to this wonderful gift of salvation. James says, faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. (Jam 2:17).
John tells us, Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth. (1Jo 3:18 ESV). Peter further admonishes us, As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: (1Pe 4:10).
God infused within each of us various talents and capabilities designed and ordained for use in His kingdom. Many reading this already have a wonderful servant’s heart, and I pray that all who read this see the opportunity to become greater in the kingdom by becoming less (Mat 20:26). I pray we all recognize that we are kings and priests, but with the understanding we must have the heart of a servant king as did Jesus, our forever king and model. As His mind continues to be formed within us (1Co 2:16, Phi 2:4-7), so our desire to serve God by serving others grows ever greater.
Pray and meditate about what roles you may serve in the Kingdom and in our church to fulfill God’s divinely ordained purpose. We need your wonderful gifts and using them will bring many blessings.
Lord, I thank you that you ordained a perfect plan for your church to function by the generous and grateful actions of Your people. May Landmark be known for being a DOING church that DOES good works for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.