Living Faith
Today I had a good work out with my trainer at 24 Hour Fitness. Then I had an appointment with my neurologist for an evaluation and check-up. Overall, he was pleased with my progress and made a few adjustments in the medications that I am on. I’m glad that most of my daily “pill regimen” consist more of supplements than prescriptions. He did say that my lingering issues are more related to the West Nile infection than the Myasthenia Gravis condition. He explained that what I am experiencing is an infection caused condition that is similar to polio or ALS.
The optimistic outlook is that there is a new treatment for motor-nuron disorders that has been highly effective. If my nerves don’t regenerate to allow for the muscle development that is needed to return to normal activity, there are some treatment options. I won’t see him again until August. It would be great if I could walk into his office without assistance for my next appointment!
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “So then, as the body without the spirit is dead, also faith without actions is dead.” James 2:26
What we believe, impacts our actions and our view of the world. You will find that in all types of people from all kinds of perspective about life. James presents the argument that “faith [in Christ] without works is dead.” He is not talking about faith that brings us into a relationship with Christ, but the faith that is seen through our lives that shows we are followers of Christ. James points out that “even demons believe, and tremble in fear…” (James 2:19)
Faith is something to be cherished and not hidden. Even though there are those who claim “deep faith, but I keep it to myself.” While I believe that usually refers to someone who is reluctant to be vocal in their words, our actions must still speak of the hope, love and faith of Christ that is in our lives.
I was recently speaking with some of the leaders of “Serve 6.8” a community service arm of Timberline Church in Fort Collins. I made the comment that I consider them “faith-motivated” – because their mission is to “share Christ’s love with no strings attached.” I believe this is at the heart of what James is talking about.
We see it in the first part of James chapter 2, when James shares about treating all with respect and dignity, regardless of outward appearance. That is faith in action.
James talks about “mercy triumphing over judgment” – that is faith in action. James uses the illustration of Abraham and Rahab (the prostitute in Jericho). They believed in the Lord and took God at His word and took actions based on that belief, actions that reflected their faith.
The bottom line is faith in Christ changes us and then we allow the Christ in us to change the way we live and how we act. Many people do good for a variety of reasons. You will find no greater satisfaction in “doing” than there is in knowing that what you are doing is based in faith in Christ who calls us to be agents of love, service and change in the lives of others.