The Upper Room Devotional for 21st September 2023

TODAY’S TOPIC: BUILDING BRIDGES

Andrew Garnett (Virginia, USA)

TODAY’S READING
Mark 9:38-41

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
The bridges we build can connect others to Jesus.

The Upper Room Devotional for 21st September 2023

Jesus said, “Whoever is not against us is for us.” – Mark 9:40 (NRSVUE)

I pastor a church that has a long-running program to serve our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness or food insecurity. Every Monday, our campus turns into a hub for people to find food and clothing, access social services, or connect with other resources. Each year we serve thousands of meals, distribute tens of thousands of pounds of groceries, and give away thousands of clothing items.

This program is run almost entirely by volunteers. Some of them are members of our church — but remarkably, most are not. The volunteers who come to serve are as varied as our city. Some are religious, while others are not. Bringing in so many volunteers from outside our congregation can sometimes make my church members worry that we might lose our Christian identity.

Indeed, we have Christian convictions we cannot compromise. But another truth of our faith is at work here. “No one who does a deed of power in my name will be able soon afterward to speak evil of me,” Jesus said (Mk. 9:39). When those from outside our church join us in the work of Christ, we all become more receptive to Jesus. As we are drawn into the life-giving work of God, we have more opportunities to see the good news come alive.

TODAY’S PRAYER
Dear God, help us reach out to others every day. Show us how we can offer compassion and hope to your children in need. Amen.

PRAYER FOCUS
Outreach ministries