October 2018: What About the Sabbath?
Then Jesus spoke to the people: “What kind of action suits the Sabbath best? Doing good or doing evil? Helping people or leaving them helpless?” Mark 3: 4
Our faith teaches us love and joyful service. Just as Jesus responded with love and kindness through healing, so shall we respond in kindness and faith to needs as they present themselves. Christ’s commitment to us is everlasting and without rules, boundaries, or timelines. While rest and reflection on the Sabbath are important for our spiritual journey, so, too, is living our faith as we serve others in our daily lives.
A young doctor, a recent Congo Protestant University (CPU) Medical School graduate, was working with a team conducting research in health facilities in Kinshasa. He managed blood collection at seven health centers in the city. One of those centers is a maternity center where expectant mothers go for prenatal check-ups. Often, they have several of their children with them during these visits.
One afternoon, a mother approached the young doctor to ask for his help in getting her young son released from the health center. Patients cannot leave if they cannot pay their bill. This doctor immediately paid the bill of $50, 20% of his monthly salary, so that the child could go home with his mother. This kind gesture did not take place on the Sabbath. But if it had, the young doctor would have responded in the same manner by extending his hand with compassion.
Our commitment to the promotion of Christian values is important as CPU creates a brighter future for its students and its country. Stand with us as Global Ministries continues to partner with the Congo Protestant University.
Linda James served with Congo Protestant University in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Her appointment was made possible by your gifts to Disciples Mission Fund, Our Church’s Wider Mission, WOC, OGHS, and your special gifts.