“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” 1 John 3:18
Last week, we discussed the context behind the phrase “for such a time as this”. I am praying God stirred something within you, as this world is in need for some change.
If you have not done so already, it is time to take action. While being inspired is key, God calls us to act on that inspiration. What good is it to talk about all of the things you want to do for others but not actually do them? This is the focal point of today’s key verse.
John understands there are a lot of people who are good at talking the talk. These people love to tell others of the good they intend to do, but have yet to carry those things out. In this verse, he emphasizes that true love spurs on action.
Jesus is the ultimate example of this. He did not just talk about love, he went out and loved others well. I could go on forever about all the ways he did this, mainly by dying on the cross, but one example perfectly displays how his love blessed and then inspired others to do the same.
In John 13 Jesus, the son of God, performs the most loving, humbling, and servant-hearted act for his disciples. He could have just told them how much he loved them. Honestly, I would have loved to hear how much Jesus loves me. But no. He took it 100 steps further and washed their feet - something only a servant would be doing at that time. Despite being the king of the world, he lowered himself amongst the people he loved and blessed them with such a beautiful gift.
This act of love serves as an example for all of us to follow. Sometimes I can think too hard about how I want to bless others. I want to be creative, original, and extra thoughtful. However, Jesus did not dwell on the ways he could love others. His love was so great he just acted on it.
I am sure you have come up with great ideas on what you can do, but if you are stuck, here are some ideas on how we can make an impact during this time with the limitations that have been placed on us:
Pray: I know this is something every Christian is telling you to do, but we cannot underestimate the power of prayer. When we all come together, earnestly praying for healing and the power of God to be seen, Jesus tells us He will answer our prayers, “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them,” (Matthew 18:19-20). His answer to our prayers may bring physical healing or spiritual healing, but regardless of how He answers our prayers, just know He wants to give us everything we need.
Video calls: We are privileged enough to live in a time of technology. We have so many different ways to stay in touch with friends and family. Video calls are a great way to be intentional with one another and to love on those who are struggling. The isolation we are experiencing right now can have such a crippling effect. Quality time is so important and given our circumstances, this is one of the best ways we can accomplish that!
Workout videos: As athletes, we can motivate others to stay active and healthy during this time by creating workout videos. People are looking for things to do and staying active is great for our physical and mental health. We can include little bits of truth and encouragement within these videos. This is even a great way to share your testimony and talk about what God is doing in your life.
Social Media: Use your Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or any other social media platform to share God’s Word and what He is doing in your life. I love seeing Instagram stories that have a verse tied to a beautiful picture. I love reading what people are taking away from it and how they are using it in their own life.
Serve your neighbors: This is a great opportunity to share the love of God by meeting the needs of those around you. Some ways you can serve your neighbors are by grocery shopping (if you are healthy of course!), cooking or baking, sewing masks, or doing yard work. These tasks will surely bless those around you.
Decorate your front yard: I have noticed more people going outside to get exercise! To encourage those who pass by your house, you could create signs that have Bible verses on them or write a positive message on your driveway with chalk. My cousins in Oregon put objects out so those passing by can play I Spy! Things like this will make the time more joyful and uplifting!
These may seem like small and simple tasks but if we all choose to do something, imagine the impact we can have for God’s kingdom! People are ready and willing to listen. They are grasping for peace and hope and are longing for things to make sense. With everything being stripped away and a circumstance that is requiring us to slow down, there is finally room for God to permeate every area of our lives.
Can you imagine what it would look like if we each decided to be bold, speak up about our faith, and love others well? Close your eyes. Picture it. Savor every beautiful aspect about it. Now act on it. What are you going to do today for God’s kingdom? You were created for such a time as this.
Dear Father, right now I cry out to you on behalf of the world. While I may be limited on what I can do, I still want to be your light and spread your love to those around me. Show me how I can help. Place a person on my heart. Give me a way of spreading your Word. I pray that your voice would be the loudest during this time. Thank you for everything you have blessed me with. I praise you for the healing you are already doing. In Jesus’ name, amen.
