Good Morning Everyone,
Our theme for this month: “Strength and Compassion”
Our Bible verse for today: “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 11:1 (NIV)
Our thought for today: “We can be inspired to strength and compassion by those who are strong and compassionate.”
Paul and Jesus were activists. They didn’t just talk about faith they lived it in their personal habits and in their service to others. Jesus set the standard by His own conduct. In John chapter 13 we find Him on the night before He was crucified, performing a tremendous act of humble service by washing the feet of His disciples. In verse 15 of that chapter He then said, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”
This is what Paul was writing about in 1 Corinthians 11:1. He followed the example of Jesus, served others in a sacrificial and humble way, and then he urged his readers to do likewise. They were inspired to be stronger in their faith and more compassionate towards others by Paul’s example of serving like Jesus served.
One of the reasons I love going on mission trips to Peru is so I can spend time with my friends, American missionaries Bud and Laura Lenz. They run the El Arca Children’s Homes in the city of Cusco in the Andes Mountains, and in Puerto Maldenado in the Amazon Jungle. In my opinion they are shining examples of strength and compassion. Spending time with them always inspires me to want to be stronger and more compassionate too.
You know people like this also. Chances are your church has a fair share of them. Ours does. I encourage you to spend time with those people. Join them in their acts of ministry. Learn from them. Be inspired by their example – and then go and do likewise.
God Bless,
Pastor Jim
Oak Hill Baptist Church 