Too often, in the church, we live as if we are members of an exclusive
club - taking care of only our own, and associating only with those who
have qualified for membership. Too often, we have separated ourselves
into communities and congregations by race, national origin, or economic
status - shunning those who are not like us. Too often, we have failed
to reach across religious, denominational, or ethnic lines to share the
love and good news of Our God and Savior. Too often, we have been
content just to enjoy the religious and social fellowship of our own
congregations - and failed to notice or respond to the needs of the
entire community around us. And, too often, we have allowed church
attendance to be the beginning and end of our walk and work as
Christians. There is so much more that God could do with us and through
us, if we would give Him the entirety of our hearts, our lives, and our
talents - and, if we would look beyond ourselves and our congregations
to care for and about all those whom God has created and given His Son
to save.
* * *
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ...
by Joseph Weilenbeck
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Are we doing all we can with this life?
Or, are we seeking and praying just for our own,
And leaving all those not just like us alone?
And is Jesus asking,
"Where is My church?
Why are Mine walking by, while others lie hurt?
Why do so many gather on My day in pride,
And when the service is over, leave Me locked up inside?
"Oh, you whom I love, this is not what I said.
I've given you life, but you walk as still dead.
You can't take My love and not give it away,
Nor bask in My riches while others decay.
"Oh, you whom I've purchased, please don't come alone.
Help all you know hear Me, I'll make them a home.
And while they still labor with you on this earth,
Love them and serve them for all that you're worth.
"For, children, I love every sinner, you see.
And each one I want to be forever with Me.
Not one is at all less deserving than you.
And, if I give you My love, then you must love them too.
"No matter their country or color of skin,
I died for each one; I paid for their sin.
With those you call least, that is where I will be.
And, until you see them, you know you cannot see Me.
"Oh, you whom I love, I beg you reach out your hand.
Share My hope with all of them; that is My plan.
My Word and My Spirit will show you the way.
Just turn from your darkness; turn to My light of day."
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
How will we answer our dear Savior tonight?
Will we love, seek, and serve Him beyond just our own,
That none whom He loves will be left, by us, alone?
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Let God's Spirit reign within us tonight.
Let us be humble and just, and let us walk in His ways
And, by His grace, love all His children all of our days.
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ...
Joseph Weilenbeck 2018
