By: Carl Ellis On 9/13/2011
Do you remember dividing or multiplying fractions in math class and having the teacher say, “I want you to show your work”? Some teachers understood that anyone could go to the back of the math book and find the answers to math problems. However, our teachers wanted to make sure we truly understood fractions and could work a problem when the answers were not available.
When we read the Bible, we know that Jesus knew the answers. When asked by the scribe about the greatest commandment, Jesus gave the right answer. When Peter asked Jesus how many times we need to forgive, Jesus gave the right answer. And when the Pharisees tried to trip up Jesus with the question of paying taxes, Jesus gave the right answer.
Yet, Jesus did more than give the right answer. He showed his work. Jesus made sure the 5,000 hungry people had a good meal. Jesus forgave the woman at the well and restored her life. And Jesus was willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice—dying for the sins of all human kind.
I wonder, do we who call ourselves “Christians” really know the answer?
I know many are able to give the ultimate answer, “God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.” (John 3:16) Many of us don’t even need to go to the book anymore since we have the answer memorized.
However, is knowing the answer enough, or do we need to show our work?
Do our lives as disciples and members of a faith community of faith show our work?
Do we believe strongly enough that we don’t just say we love Jesus but also follow his commandment to “… make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you”? (Matthew 28:19,20)
Do we really believe in the redemption of all human kind? Are we willing to be the shepherds who offer food to the hungry, water to the thirsty, clothing to the naked, care for the sick and visit those in prison? Do we really believe in the love of Jesus, and are we willing to feed and care for the sheep and lambs of all ages?
I believe Jesus asks us to humbly show our work.
For some of us, we have been long on answers but short on showing our work.
Vital Congregations, ABIDE, Leadership Incubator, the Board of Discipleship’s Bring a Friend Sunday, Kansas Leadership Center’s Leadership and Faith Transforming program and many other programs have been set up to help us to move from words to action—being Christians and congregations who share God’s love, grace and hope.
May we become those who are able to respond to God, “Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord? I have heard you calling in the night. I will go, Lord, if you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart.”
If you need more information on one of the above programs, please contact your district superintendent, the conference office or email me at cellis@kswestumc.org.
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