For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Matthew 7:2
“If we are able to enter the church day and night and implore God to hear our prayers, how careful should we be to hear and grant the petitions of our neighbor in need.”
John the Merciful (c. 550-616) a.k.a. John the Almsgiver, in The Voice of the Saints: Counsels from the Saints to Bring Comfort and Guidance in Daily Living, ed. Francis W. Johnston (London: Burns & Oates, 1965).
Over five years ago I cited a different quote from John the Almsgiver in a Christianity Today article, “Give to Street People?” My thoughts then still ring true today.
We want God to hear our prayers in crisis, so we must be attentive to the cries of others. Rather than judge those who are hurting, let us use the measure of love and grace. And if they appear undeserving, pray for more love and more grace.
Looking back, this article was written before we knew Jenni had cancer and was released just after Jenni was diagnosed. We went from serving the needy to being in great need virtually overnight. Today we would testify as a family that Jesus acted toward us as His Word states above.
We urged others to live openhanded lives and help others in need, and in real time, God extended that same measure to us. He moved six people we never asked to help us with our $10,000 in medical bills. We are grateful to this day and resolve to listen for the petitions of our neighbors in need.
And in case you missed it from yesterday, here is a suggestion of someone to aid, click here to give according to your ability to help Peter Gomez study to be a pastor. As of yesterday he was at $4,400 toward the $12,000 he needs for school. Join us in showing him charity.
How do we know him? He’s our daughter’s boyfriend from San Diego Christian College. We are thankful for their special friendship which honors the Lord. He has limited family support and has had a tough summer earning money for school with a recent emergency appendectomy.
Please hear his prayer to God for help, or respond to someone else in need in your life. Extend the measure to them that you would want others to extend to you in your time of need.