August 17, 2025 - INSCRIPTIONS FROM THE HEART

Pastor Immanuel Garcera

True Faith

When we read Jesus’ words in Matthew 25:40 this Sunday, we are confronted with a challenging truth: "Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." This passage makes it clear that our acts of compassion and service to others are an expression of our love for Christ Himself.

This profound principle is echoed beautifully in another passage, which offers us a clear definition of what genuine faith of a Christ follower looks like. In James 1:27, we are told:

“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”

This is not a new command, but a powerful parallel to Jesus’ teaching. Our faith isn't just about what we believe in our hearts and minds, but also about what we do with our hands and feet. A "pure and faultless" faith is one that actively seeks out the vulnerable -- the modern-day orphan, the single mom struggling to make ends meet, the lonely senior -- and meets their needs in some way! It is a faith that is expressed in action.

As we go about our week, let us ask ourselves: Is my faith a quiet belief, or is it an active force that makes me move for the glory of God? Let us look for opportunities to serve those around us, knowing that in doing so, we are truly serving the Lord.

To God be the glory!