From the Pastor
FROM THE PASTOR
Recently I’ve found a new Bible translation called the Easy to Read Translation. It was originally published as the English Version for the Deaf (EVD) by Baker Books. Since deaf readers sometimes struggle with reading English because sign language is their first language, the World Bible Translation Center decided to do a translation that would make reading the Bible easier for them. The EVR uses simpler vocabulary and shorter sentences to make it easier to understand. I love how it translates Philippians 2:1-4:
“Think about what we have in Christ: the encouragement he has brought us, the comfort of his love, our sharing in his Spirit, and the mercy and kindness he has shown us. If you enjoy these blessings, 2 then do what will make my joy complete: Agree with each other, and show your love for each other. Be united in your goals and in the way you think. 3 In whatever you do, don’t let selfishness or pride be your guide. Be humble, and honor others more than yourselves. 4 Don’t be interested only in your own life, but care about the lives of others too.”
The Lord doesn’t simply want us to love Him in our hearts. He also wants us to show that love to the world around us through our deeds and actions. Too often non-Christians look at those of us who are and think “What hypocrites! They talk about having faith but they never do anything about it.” That should never be the case.
This week I want you to look at your life and ask yourself, “Was I a blessing to others today? Did I demonstrate my love of the Lord to others through how I treated them? Was I truly fruitful, or was I simply busy?”
Motivational speaker Robert Moment wrote, “There is a big difference between keeping ourselves busy with activities that are centered on our own desires and truly being fruitful Christians who are cultivating His love on earth. God challenges us every day to look beyond simply getting through each day and work toward making each day an opportunity to help others, bless others and pray for others.”
Whichever translation you use, the meaning is clear. We must not only be interested in our own lives but care about others as well.
Think about that,
RB