WITHOUT WORKS — DOING THE GOOD THAT IS OURS

BY WALLACE CALEB BATES

Jesus said in Matthew 25:40, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." These words call us to love and serve others. Micah 6:8 reminds us what God asks: "To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." These verses show us how to live a life of faith and action.

Growing up, I remember the kind of life my older family members led. I was enamored by my grandparents' willingness to help our community and its people, my parent's devotion to their vocations in education and healthcare, and the ways I saw a life of love embodied for the collective betterment. 

My home region is no stranger to challenges, but many of its challenges are shared struggles with communities across our nation. The good that is ours to do is all around us, waiting for our hands, our prayers, and our love.

For example, the housing crisis is everywhere. In cities, unhoused people struggle to find shelter. In rural places like eastern Kentucky, the problem is just as real. After the 2022 floods, many families lost everything. Affordable and safe housing feels out of reach for so many. For some, the fear of another flood adds to their burden. But housing is just one of many struggles our communities face.

Access to education is another. In too many places, children and adults alike face barriers to learning that hold them back. A lack of resources, outdated schools, and limited opportunities for higher education make it hard for people to build better futures. Education, like housing, is foundational — it's a key to unlocking potential and creating change.

Mounting issues make our economic future seem bleak and burdened. Despite the negative emotions and perceptions we may harbor, we need to recognize the spirit of belief that resides in the hearts of our people. Together, by living out the blueprint Christ Jesus designed for us, we can improve our situations. 

What can we do? First, we act justly. Justice means making sure everyone has access to the tools they need to thrive. That includes safe homes, good schools, and opportunities to grow. It means speaking up for fair policies and ensuring help reaches those who need it most. Justice also calls us to care for our environment so communities can be safe and sustainable.

Second, we love mercy. Mercy means seeing people's struggles and helping however we can. It's in the little things, like donating, volunteering, or just listening to someone's story. Mercy reminds us that everyone deserves kindness, dignity, and a chance to succeed.

Finally, we walk humbly with God. Humility means we know we can't fix everything alone. We need God's help and the help of others. Churches, nonprofits, and neighbors working together can make a real difference. Humility also means being open to learning and growing as we try to help.

Eastern Kentucky's challenges show us a significant need, but they also show us the power of community. After the floods, neighbors helped neighbors, and strangers came to lend a hand. That's what God's kingdom looks like: people showing up for one another.

When I was young, I questioned why I had been born into a unique region and why I could not have been born into an urban one. I have constantly found solace in Esther's story, her being born into such a time as this. She had good to do, and we do, too, wherever God decides to use us.  

Jesus said, "Whatever you did for the least of these, you did for me." Let's keep those words close. Let's act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. And let's remember that every small act of goodness brings hope and healing to our world.

Practical steps can start small. Volunteer to serve meals at the homeless shelter here in Breathitt County or a shelter in your community, providing food and hope to those in need. Join a local church or faith group that offers opportunities to mentor and support young people, whether through youth programs, Sunday school, or simply showing up for their lives. 

These actions, though simple, show God's love and begin to transform our communities for the better. We are called to a faith of action, not faith alone. As James 2:17 reminds us, "Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is 'dead.'"

When we step into that work, we live by God's call and make His presence known. Let's take up that call and do all the good we can wherever we are. Wherever you are today, take heart in knowing that even the smallest act of goodness can make a difference. Together, let us embrace the good that is ours to do.

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