Leadership Column: True Religion

Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans.
Fight for the rights of widows.
Isaiah 1:17 NLT

Jesus railed at the religious leaders of his time because they had strayed so far from the true intent of the Law that they used it to justify neglecting their own parents' needs (Mark 8:11-12). It is no surprise, then, that James reminds us, "Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress (James 1:27 NLT)."

Orphans and widows represent those in society who are the most vulnerable to neglect because they lack a family support system to care for them. They are in danger of being left out of the "koinonia," or the fellowship of believers.

Did you know that there are Central Church members who are, through no fault of their own, left out of our fellowship! These are the folks who are physically unable to join us in worship services. The loss of their presence among us is our loss, because true fellowship means that all other believers are essential for our well-being. This is what one small group at Central discovered when they decided to "expand their fellowship" to include a Central member who now resides in a nursing home.

Without any special training or experience with this individual's circumstances that differed so greatly from their own, they set out to show God's love as best as they could. The outcome surprised them. Not only did God enable them to love, but He disclosed to them the secret of true koinonia fellowship: It transforms the way we see ourselves and think about other people. Here is how the group members described their experiences:

On several occasions I have walked into the nursing home visit with some sadness in my heart. But, each time I walk away from the experience with lifted spirits. I really do believe that bringing joy to someone else's day brings an equal, if not greater, amount of contentment into my life and heart.

Being able to see the joy we bring her by visiting and reading the Word, gives her the biggest smile and brings joy to my heart. She shares so much love with us and as we brighten up her day, she also brightens up mine.

Christmas caroling was a joyful blessing. Her smile said more than words that she loved having visitors and listening to our less than par renditions of Drummer Boy and O Holy Night. I am thankful that God has brought our group to her.

It has been a joy to visit my "new grandma." She is spirited and smiley and helps me to feel better when I'm a bit under the weather more than I help her.

If your small group or your family wants to experience the same joy by extending community to someone who is not physically able to join us in fellowship, contact the Central Presbyterian Deacons. Stop by the Deacons' Desk in the Concourse or call Cheryl Belitsos.