“So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” Jn 13: 34-35

I can remember several years ago being asked by the Major in charge of the  Salvation Army in New Bedford, MA why I volunteered my time there.  After some serious thought, this was my answer:

When I think of all the teams, civic groups, business associations and committees I’ve been on during my several decades of life, volunteering at the Salvation Army has been most rewarding.

Jesus, in Matthew Chapter 25:31-46, shared something vital with those in the position to help. His pleasure lies with the compassionate folks who sacrifice to meet the needs of the less fortunate. How encouraging it is to see this in action at the Salvation Army in New Bedford!

In my estimation, the local outreach ministry of the Salvation Army superbly represents the working church of Christ and shines as our area’s Center of Eternal Hope. For over 135 years, it has faithfully and effectively served others, transformed lives, and brought a living hope.

Admittedly, there are no perfect people or organizations. The highly effective missionary work of the Salvation Army, however, speaks for itself. On a Christ-like basis, multitudes of the least, last, and lost among us are fed, clothed, supported, and encouraged to live a life in a relationship with Christ. The labor of love saturates the atmosphere in this New Bedford service community.

My reader friend, please assess how you are investing your time, talents, treasures and energies. The work to be done in our communities for those in dire need is constant, comprehensive, complex and challenging. By God’s grace and your willingness to join the cause, your local Salvation Army or comparable Christ-driven organization will have the human power and resources necessary to not only fight poverty and despair, but to win the battle in dramatic fashion.

Will you consider joining me as a volunteer at a Salvation Army facility or similar ministry near you? I promise — you’ll find it more than worth it!

1 Cor 11:1; 1 Cor 10:31; Rom 8:28; Jn 15:16-17; Luke 4:18