In the aftermath of my son Jacob’s death as a result of a car accident, people all around us performed extraordinary acts of kindness that reflected love. As a family, we were humbled over and over by the actions of people in our community and around the world. For the most part, these things were being done by people we knew through church, Bible studies and our work.
We often referred to these people who helped as the physical “hands and feet of Christ.” However, not all of these wonderful people are Christians. Even so, were they still being the hands and feet of Christ? In my opinion, YES!
It has never been my belief that a person has to be a Christian to act with love and kindness. Just a quick glance at the world around us proves that Christians are not the only people loving others. In fact, I’m sad to say, some of the most hurtful things done to people throughout history have been done by Christians.
What is the explanation then for my friend who makes it very clear she has no interest in God but also went to great lengths to have a huge banner made for Jacob’s memorial service with the passage of Scripture from Psalm 24 about “those who seek him, who seek your face, O God of Jacob”? In addition, she had my dog groomed as an act of love at a time when that task was hardly on my list of priorities, even though the dog desperately needed it! If I believe that all good and perfect gifts are from above, then it makes sense to also believe that these good and perfect acts of kindness and compassion are from above… even when they come through people who do not believe in God.
Jesus never qualified which mourning people would be comforted. He simply said, “Blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted.” So, even those who deny God will be comforted. That’s how much He loves people.
Likewise, He doesn’t only send His good and perfect gifts through people who believe. God will allow His love to flow through anyone He chooses. All He does is nudge us. We have the choice whether or not to follow through and do what He has inspired us to do. Often times, those who don’t know Him or care to know Him respond positively and become a conduit of God’s love. Other times, people like me, who know Him and love Him, ignore His nudges and withold the good and perfect gifts God has for someone.
Jesus commanded His followers to love one another. It’s really not an option for those of us who call ourselves Christians; we are to love. And not just those who love us. We are told by Jesus to love our enemies. Our love is supposed to make it clear to those around us that we are Christ’s disciples. We are to resist the devil, and stand firm against his evil ways. We are to make no room in our lives for Satan, but we are to make room in our hearts to love everyone, including our enemies.
Journey Of Grief ~ Journey Of Grace 