This upcoming Sunday I am preaching on the church’s responsibility to address the needs of the poor and the hurting. This is the second sermon in a series on the core values of our church. I invite you to read ahead by examining Luke 10:25-37.
One of the true marks of a believer is a concern for the poor (1 John 3:17). In preparation for the message I came across this quote from Robert Murray M’Cheyne (1813-1843), a young Scottish minister who died at the age of 29. Read carefully and thoughtfully his words:
I fear there are Christians among you to whom Christ can say no such thing ["Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you..." (Matthew 25:34)]. Your haughty dwelling rises in the midst of thousands who have scarce a fire to warm themselves at, and have but little clothing to keep out the biting frost; and yet you never darkened their door. You heave a sigh, perhaps, at a distance; but you do not visit them. Ah! my dear friend! I am concerned for the poor but more for you. I know not what Christ will say to you in the great day . . . . I fear there are many hearing me who may know well that they are not Christians, because they do not love to give. To give largely and liberally, not grudging at all, requires a new heart; an old heart would rather part with its life-blood than its money. Oh my friends! enjoy your money; make the most of it; give none away; enjoy it quickly for I can tell you, you will be beggars throughout eternity.” [Source: The Works of the late Rev. Robert Murray McCheyne]
I am indebted to Timothy J. Keller’s Ministries of Mercy for calling my attention to this quote.