Act Justly, Love Mercy, Walk HumblySample

For 40 years, Mercy Ships has made a difference to the lives of millions of people around the world.  Mercy Ships was founded by Don and Deyon Stephens, who sought to follow the model of Jesus. They had the incredible vision for a floating hospital to bring hope and healing to the forgotten poor. Their story shows that stepping out in faith and responding to God’s word can truly change lives, change communities and even change the world.

The prophet Samuel tells the people of Israel that sacrifices and burnt offerings are not what God desires most. What God is really looking for from His people is obedience, not showing off with public spectacles of religion. God asks us simply to obey Him and to follow Jesus’ model of love, mercy and humility.

We live in a time when churches can get sidetracked with putting on events or running programmes that are focussed inwards. Perhaps these are the bold burnt offerings of today? How do we live out our faith in a practical way that pleases God most?  How do we become outward-facing churches and Christians?

God is looking for Christians who are willing to reach out to those in need. After all, how we serve the poor and follow the example of Jesus is the real litmus test for churches and for us as individual Christians.

Call to action – How do you respond when you see those who are a pariah, poor or in pain?  What would it look like for you to look outwards and serve those who are in need of God’s love?