POWER IN ACTION

1 Thessalonians 1:4-5

⁴ For we know, brothers and sisters beloved by God, that he has chosen you,  ⁵ because our message of the gospel came to you not in word only but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; just as you know what kind of persons we proved to be among you for your sake.       

Movies are a big part of many of our lives and there are key movies that influence your life and become part of your own story. For me, The Princess Bride was one of those. I watched it many times growing up and it has become the movie to watch for my son when home ill from school who turns in on when a fever spikes. I know many of the lines by heart and one of my favorites by its author William Goldman is, “We are men of action. Lies do not become us.” There is something to the reminder that there is something to the power of action and doing that words alone cannot capture or demonstrate. Being a doer in this world is incredibly important because it shows who we are and what we stand for. It is one thing to talk about loving people, helping neighbors, and being a good steward. However, it is another thing to show up and walk the walk.

This passage today reminds us that the power of the gospel should not be limited to words only. We are called to act on our faith and to be people of action. God doesn’t want us to just sit around and share our faith but to be bold and live our beliefs in action and in doings. It can be as simple as calling a friend in need or smiling at a stranger, or as big as donating time and resources. It doesn’t matter how big or small our actions are but simply that we act. How can you act on your faith today?

Prayer

Dear God, help us to be people of action. Give us endurance to not only share your gospel in word but the energy and strength to share it in action as well. Help us to seek out places and spaces to carry your message of love. In Your Name, Amen.