Me, or Others?

A new year, a new beginning sort of, except many of last year’s problems are still with us.  It is the BIG problem, COVID-19, which still captures our attention with daily news headlines.  What really startles me are the actions of some Christians.  Some don’t appear to be very Christian in their response to the needs and concerns of others.

The Bible teaches me to put the needs of others ahead of my own needs. I am taught to live in such a way as to help others rather than myself, and especially help them come to know Jesus.  Around me I see fearful people, especially people my age and older.  I listen to the government where I live telling me to wear a face covering whenever I am in a building with others and not to have people in my home unless they live with me.  All this to stop the spread of a nasty virus and keep people feeling safe and secure.  My response, as a Christian, is to put the needs of others ahead of any feelings I may have and do whatever I need to do to help others stay calm and stay safe.  I wear a mask, I follow the laws, I obey my government leaders as the Bible directs me to do.  I have had many people who are not Christians ask me if as a Christian I follow the laws and help keep others safe.  What a glorious opportunity to share my faith as I explain that Jesus always wants us to put the needs of others ahead of our own because we truly love and care about them.

We just finished a difficult year, and most of this one won’t be much better.  But it has given us a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate Jesus’ love as we put the needs of others ahead of our own.  That is one of the characteristics which shows others that we are Christians.  We live out our faith of love and concern for others.