If we are going to accomplish the global purpose of God, it will not be primarily through giving our money, as important as that is. It will happen primarily through giving ourselvs. This is what the gospel represents and this is what the gospel requires.

When we realize that Jesus is the one who takes the initiative and invites us to follow him, everything changes-on multiple levels.

The bible informs us, compels us to care for the poor, to love the outcast, to serve the needy.

Don't underestimate what God can do with ordinary people.

The church is not an audience of spectators; we are a fellowship of disciple-makers

God's ultimate concern is not to get you or me from point A to point B along the quickest, easiest, smoothest, clearest route possible. Instead, his ultimate concern is that you and I would know him deeply as we trust him more completely.

We act, though, not under a utopian illusion that you or I or anyone or everyone together can rid this world of pain and suffering. That responsibility belongs to the resurrected Christ, and he will do it when he returns. But until that day, we do with an undivided heart whatever God calls us to do.