“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”       James 1:22 NKJV

“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.” Matthew 25:35-36 NIV

Did anyone guess “action” as our last one-word title for December? As we look toward a new, and hopefully less stressful year, let’s choose “action”, the kind Jesus speaks of in Matthew 25.

We celebrated the birth of our Savior, the Messiah, Jesus Christ with anticipation, adoration, and acclamation. But if we fail to put what Jesus teaches us into action, we fail. Sadly, I often fail. I miss an opportunity to be there for someone hurting, forget to call a friend who is alone, look past someone who needs acknowledgement, or just assume someone else will take care a situation. I need to keep trying. We all have to keep trying. We all have to put the Word into action.

As we begin a new year, let’s follow James’ advice and “be doers of the word”. How many times have we heard a sermon that spoke to us, inspired us, or moved us? We praised the preacher but went home, right back into our comfortable, predictable lives and didn’t act on what we heard. Yes, I’m guilty of it, too.

So as we look forward to a new year, let’s act! Let’s choose to put words into action. Let’s give to those around us. Let’s serve those in need. Let’s provide for those without. Let’s care for those who are sick or alone. Let’s visit those who need comfort. Let’s share our stories. Let’s be the light of Jesus in our own little part of the world. So that through us, others can see Jesus, and anticipate, adore and acclaim Him as the Lord of their lives.

This week start small, choose one person to help or one activity to participate in or one ministry to volunteer with. Act! And shine the light of Jesus for others to see.

I thank God for each of you! And I thank you for joining me this week as we put the Word into action.

Blessings for you, as you bless others!