Friday, August 29, 2003
Friday, August 29, 2003
Since there will never cease to be some in need on the earth, I therefore
command you, "Open your hand to the poor and needy neighbor in your land."
That would be a good motto for us as we kneel in the presence of God to commit ourselves
anew to His service and the service of the world. "Have read your book and have come to help."
Such is the motto of those ready to walk on water. To live recklessly for Christ. To have the kind
of faith Simon Peter had--the kind of faith about which Jesus said, "Upon this rock I will build my
church." That's us. That's who we are--who we are called to be. Not lazy hens lying around the
barnyard but creatures meant for the sky. Sure, we will make mistakes. But when we fall, by His
grace, we will fall forward and the world will be blessed because we have heeded Christ's call.
(Deuteronomy 15.11
NRSV)
Theodore Roosevelt read a book by New York newspaperman Jacob Riis. entitled, HOW THE
OTHER HALF LIVES. It described the slums of the city, with all its vice and crime. Theodore
Roosevelt went at once to the newspaper, but Riis was not in. Roosevelt left his card and wrote
on it, "Have read your book and have come to help."
Lord Jesus, I have come to help. Amen.
