James 1:21-22
21 Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. 22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
“The greatest single cause of atheism in the world today is Christians: who acknowledge Jesus with their lips, walk out the door, and deny Him by their lifestyle. That is what an unbelieving world simply finds unbelievable.”
― Brennan Manning
James tells us to live our life doing what the Word teaches. Brennan Manning wrote something called the Ragamuffin Gospel. His quote tells us about why people are atheists. What example are you setting for those around you?
At our Church, we are charged with the responsibility of taking the Good News out into the world. I am not sure we always do that. What example do you set when you step outside the Church building? I heard a story of the man who always waves a friendly hello when he sees you at Church but gives a different kind of wave when you cut him off in traffic. And he is not telling you that you are number one either. Is that you?
People are watching to see how you live your life. What are they seeing? Are they learning about community? Do you care for others in a way that warms their hearts and builds a desire to join you? That is what we are supposed to do in Christ. We are commanded to love one another. We are to listen to those in need and try to help. The Church could easily solve the world’s problems if they were willing to step outside themselves and love as Jesus loved. That is a lofty goal. When they look at your Church community, are they drawn in or repulsed? Do you greet a cynic with disdain or kindness? How do you welcome the stranger?
What do they see in us? Are we pulling together for the same cause or are we each looking to have our own way and grab glory for ourselves? God will not share His glory! I don’t know about you but I am not willing to fight Him for it. I’d rather give Him the glory and enjoy the blessings of obedience. Each day, when we face the world, will we show unity and love to draw them to our Lord? Today is another opportunity for you to set a good example. Why not be the person others want to be around? Why not love others as you have been loved or would like to be loved. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations through your actions of kindness!
Lord, help us to be doers of Your Word. You gave us the Bible for our benefit “so that it will go well with us.” You set an example of how to love. By Your Spirit, help us to draw others to You into the Good News. Help us to live Your Word! Keep us together as one so we can bring glory to Your Holy Name. In that name we pray!