Our scripture this week is Matthew 10:40-42.
“Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. Whoever welcomes a prophet as a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and whoever welcomes a righteous person as a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.”
Jesus explains that even those who may not be active missionaries, in the sense of going from place to place, have a responsibility to support the “prophets” and “righteous persons” who do. Jesus also tells us that when we welcome them and encourage their ministry, we become part of that work. The kingdom of heaven has a position and a responsibility for each of us.
Perhaps you are not called to go build schools in far away places, but when you send a donation, your gift makes things happen. We are all both benefactors and beneficiaries in God’s economy, expected to give help when and where we are able, and accept the generosity of others when necessary.
Think about the number of worthy outreach efforts where you are or far away, and ask God to guide you in supporting ministry that will share His love with others. Learn where there is a need you can help meet. We can make a difference in the world with our prayers and our action.
Loving Lord, we see a world that cries out for the care we can provide. Help us to be the gift of love You send to meet these needs. Amen.