Some Christians focus on believing correctly, what some call “orthodoxy.” Some focus on doing rightly, or “orthopraxy.” Most of us understand our faith in a way that incorporates both faith and action. James, the brother of Jesus, certainly understood that authentic Christian discipleship involves both. He wrote assertively to those who seemed to feel that belief alone was sufficient:
What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but does not have works? Surely that faith cannot save, can it? If a brother or sister is naked and lacks daily food and one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and eat your fill,” and yet you do not supply their bodily needs, what is the good of that? So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead. – James 2:14-17 NRSV
In just a few days, we have several opportunities to put living faith into action as we serve the homeless population of Atlanta. There are ways you can contribute no matter your prior life experience, your sense of personal comfort, and your schedule. Join us at the church wide breakfast and lunch packing party on Sunday, October 30th at 12:00 PM. Donate men’s underwear, socks, and gloves. During November 1-7, prepare dinner at the church, deliver dinner to the shelter, or spend the night at the shelter. Get all the details and sign up at ptcumc.org/homeless.
Being homeless doesn’t mean one has to be hopeless. I pray that you will join in this work to shine the light of God’s love and share the hope of God’s faithfulness with folks who spend their days and nights living on the edge. Those beloved people need us, and God is sending us to meet them where they are. Please don’t miss out on the joy of offering hope.
