Douglas Hoy, Conference Disaster Response Coordinator
On Palm Sunday, I listened as the pastor shared a message focused on the reality that how you treat others will have an eternal impact for us and those with whom we interact. During his sermon, he posed a few questions to the congregation. Who is the person you most admire? Who is that person who has left a lasting mark on your life? Is there someone who has invested time in you and made you feel valued? Who was there for you at just the right time to make a difference?
He went on to explain that no matter who each person in the congregation identified, there were similarities in the reasons they were chosen. When someone takes the time to intentionally lift us up, they are humbly showing and sharing compassion while living and loving like Jesus. In addition to taking a personal interest in us, they are allowing Jesus to use them and to be seen in and through them. And, while we benefit from their actions, their reason for becoming involved is to honor Jesus through the use of their gifts and talents.
Romans 12 urges us to humbly offer ourselves in service to the body of Christ, embracing our confidence in Him as we come to the table and put our love into action. In her commentary, Elizabeth Shively clarifies this concept by saying, “let your love be heartfelt; be eager to show each other honor; be set on fire by the Spirit;...literally ‘participate in’ — the needs of the saints, and pursue hospitality….True love is fervent, relentless, and practical.”
In my video message (youtube.com/watch?v=4vudf6JQDEc) on UMCOR Sunday in March, I highlighted the fact that there is a table prepared for us during our times of need. Everyone is welcome at this table. Some are present because they are hungry, thirsty, or need clothing. Others are there because they have been called to serve. It is because of the goodness and merciful acts of those who are called that this table is plentiful.
In 2022, the congregations of the Susquehanna Annual Conference came to that table and generously gave $523,435 directly to Advances that supported the mission and ministry of UMCOR. Through that financial giving, victims of disasters were being fed and clothed. As a result of your acts of service, homes were being repaired. By putting your love into action, hope was being restored and people you did not know were able to see and experience Jesus and the love He has for them.
My pastor concluded his sermon by asking…Is there anyone in your life who needs to know they are loved? Who in your life needs to feel valued or cared for? Who needs you to be there for them in their time of need? As we move through 2023 and beyond, continue to be present at the table. Allow the Holy Spirit to light a fire in your heart and use the gifts you have been given to humbly serve those in need, whatever that need may be. Follow the calling of Romans 13 to fulfill the law by loving your neighbor. And, do so with confidence, knowing that it is holy and pleasing to God and the eternal impact will be far greater than any earthly benefits.
