Words and Actions

Thinking about the Baptism of Jesus in February made me think about the way Jesus put his words into action.  He came with words of love, forgiveness and humility, as God coming alongside ordinary people, to accept their help and ministry, and to bring them salvation – from oppression, darkness and ignorance.

And here he is, the Son of God at the beginning of his mission, not standing on any airs and graces, getting in with the crowds, being ministered to by others, being washed clean alongside them – doing all that God requires.

On that day His actions spoke louder than words, and it was something he kept on doing throughout his ministry.  People listened to his teaching because they knew he was totally believable, he was living it, putting it into practice right in front of them.

Here in Crewe I’m proud of the way that the churches are working together to offer safety, hot food and a warm bed to homeless people in our town in January and February.  It's all about ‘word and deed’, helping to change the lives of the poorest people in our town through practical works of love.

One of the things I’ve noticed as we do this is the way it encourages people to get up and use their gifts and talents to make a difference.  Can you befriend somebody? Can you make a nice cup of tea? Can you cook? Do the washing-up?

At All Saints' I can see the Soup and a Smile project on Thursday lunch times doing something similar, offering a safe space for people to gather and meet up – to find friendship and fellowship.  Do please drop in for some soup and to share a smile.

More importantly, this kind of activity is all about extending the Kingdom of God in Crewe – putting the Good News of Jesus into action.  Maybe the people of this town will take more notice of our words if they can see our love in action in this way?