We have ministers and congregations throughout the
United States and Canada as well as Jamaica, the Philippines,
and Australia. Our mission is to preach the Gospel of Jesus
Christ throughout the world by using:

Altruism

Posted by COGI on Wednesday, February 1st, 2012

An Unexpected Phone Call … Most everyone is drawn to real-life drama, particularly the experiences that validate our capacity to care for each other. No doubt about it, each of us can choose to do what goes against “carnal human nature” and do those things that are pleasing to God and helpful to each other. When that happens, the results are usually more beneficial and inspiring than the alternative.

A few weeks ago a member of our fellowship called and passed along a request. He had been watching our weekly service on the live webcast. He learned, at the same time as our local congregation, that one of our members was undergoing dialysis three times a week. This prompted his call and the question, “Has anyone offered to give him a kidney?” He went on to say, “Check into it and if it’s doable, he can have one of mine.” After finishing the call, I sat back and collected my thoughts on his unsolicited willingness to literally give up part of himself to help someone else have a better life. I wondered about the impetus behind his unadulterated altruism—there were no strings attached. 

So, how did he come up with this idea? Why would anyone even think about giving one of his organs to someone outside of his personal family…unless he was devoted to biblical principles?

Those who follow Jesus’ teachings know He said, “Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). In a very real sense, this principle was driving one member of our fellowship to take a risk for another. Such thoughtfulness cannot be overstated but its origins can be understated. 

Christians have a way of stepping up to do the remarkable. It happens more often than we realize. They do pray for each other; they do make personal sacrifices to serve each other; they do volunteer (in this case it was done secretly) to risk their well-being to help a friend to wellness. It seems selflessness is inherent in practiced Christianity and fundamental to discipleship. Some try it, many don’t. Imagine how different life would be if more of us gave it a try.

[You are invited to share your thoughts on how you experienced “Christ in you” (Colossians 1:27) or observed it in someone else.]

 Charles E. Groce


Categories: New Category, Blog Post

Comments

  • Posted by Nancy on February 9th, 2012 at 5:49 a.m.
    What a wonderful, inspirational reminder that the love of God is often experienced through acts of kindness - some large and some small - in everyday life. And that we as Christ followers need to follow His example in serving others, using our blessings and talents to "send the light" into this dark world. Keep up the good work!
  • Posted by JimF on February 4th, 2012 at 8:32 a.m.
    Hi Charles My experience with Altruism began in 1974 as a 15 year old being called to attend God's Church. So many people took this young fellow "under their wing" to ensure I was able to attend services, attend evangelistic campaigns, & Feasts. Hospitality was part of the Church culture as we would attend activities in other cities, and be invited to stay at the homes of brethren. Great fellowship & great memories ... of great kindness. Each at of service was "an example" to me, of how I could best live my life.
  • Posted by Lisa on February 4th, 2012 at 8:28 a.m.
    Thank you for the refreshing outlook! It is an inspired message that I will try to live up to in the future.