Faith in action

I just returned from a stretching, yet incredible week of serving those affected by disability with Joni and Friends.  Their ministry challenges me in so many ways.  I have been continually reminded of how blessed I am and how often I take those blessings for granted.  It was so amazing to see the smiles on many, many faces and constantly hear laughter all around me.  The joy expressed in so many people's lives last week was quite refreshing.

Here's a picture of me with my camper:

Last week also gave me another reminder of how important it is to demonstrate my faith through the things that I do, not just through my words.  And I know that I have a long way to go!  "It's the way you live, not the way you talk, that counts." James 3:14, The Message. 

It's so easy to get lost in the daily grind of life, doing our routine things while forgetting about the importance of reaching out to the needs of others around us.  I know my time at camp has challenged me to be more open to people, to simply show them the light and love of Jesus through my actions.  A smile goes a long way towards brightening someone's day.  Random acts of kindness are awesome ways of reaching out as well.  This is something that I would like to do more of.  Sure it might take a few dollars here or there or extra energy, but if it brings joy to someone else's life, then it's definitely worth it!

I'm going to close with some verses from James 3:14-17 according to the NIV version.  "What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds?  Can such faith save him?  Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food.  If one of you says to him, 'Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it?  In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."