Benevolence is alive and well at HCF

Hill Country Fellowship sure had the Word in action going on this past Wednesday.
1 John 3:18 (NLT)
“Dear children, let us stop just saying we love each other; let us really show it by our actions.”
Though we were considerably grimy and tired after an afternoon of sorting and hanging clothes, sweeping a huge, considerably dirty floor, moving toys, furniture and various items into an attempt at some kind of recognizable order, our Benevolence Barn got a fairly decent overhaul for just one day’s labor. Workers showed up, actually being the example of God’s people who laid down their lives for the benefit of others—to help those in need. When we give of ourselves, we give in love and we give a lot!

One of our churches outer buildings, for those of you who don’t know, is full of donations of all sorts of useful items. It’s the old, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure,” arrangement. Many members of our congregation, as well as others in our community have brought us bits and pieces of their lives to share with anyone who might have a use for them. Those in need take freely, with grateful hearts, from our supply. Those who come can see for themselves that we care about their physical needs and we love to help them. (We will soon be open certain days each month.)

This ministry is strikingly similar to James’s teaching too. James 2:14-17 (NLT)
“Dear brothers and sisters, what's the use of saying you have faith if you don't prove it by your actions? That kind of faith can't save anyone. 15Suppose you see a brother or sister who needs food or clothing, 16and you say, "Well, good-bye and God bless you; stay warm and eat well"—but then you don't give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?
17So you see, it isn't enough just to have faith. Faith that doesn't show itself by good deeds is no faith at all—it is dead and useless.”

How clearly do your actions say you really love others? Are you as generous as you could be with your money, possessions, and time? Whether by word or deed, spread some love around every day – After all, that’s what we are here for!