The GB Aim: Demonstrating
The aim of the Girls’ Brigade is to help girls become followers of the Lord Jesus Christ and through self control, reverence and a sense of responsibility to find true enrichment of life.
A canal boat trip can be very relaxing, especially in good weather. This day, however, was far from dry or warm! Most of the group were inside with only the helmsman out in the rain. Looking at a field full of sheep grazing beside the water, she realised that one lone animal was completely entangled in a hawthorn bush. The more it pulled and panicked, the tighter the wool became caught. The sheep would undoubtedly die if it wasn’t set free.
The choice was obvious – ignore the situation or, despite the weather and effort required, do something about it! With varying degrees of enthusiasm the dry occupants of the boat emerged to rescue the sheep! A wet and slippery landing was negotiated in order to cut the animal free. No one saw the damp rescuers in action and, of course, the sheep never even said thank you!
Stepping away from an entirely self-centred lifestyle is not always easy. Jesus’ first followers were encouraged to recognise that demonstrating Jesus’ love was as much a responsibility of discipleship as teaching it!
Romans 14: 7-8 – “… for none of us lives to himself alone…”
Matthew 10: 7-8 – “…Freely you have received, freely give.”
Asking God’s Spirit to open our understanding of the depth of Jesus’ love for the world … us, our community and our environment … will deepen our desire to respond. As disciples we are called to proclaim this love through speech, action and care. We are accountable to him regarding the right use of our gifts and resources.
Am I demonstrating Jesus’ love?
- Do I seek to be a practical expression of Jesus’ love within my church and community?
- How seriously do I take my responsibility to regularly contribute money, time and prayer to God’s work?
- Are any changes needed in my priorities – God, home, leisure, church, Brigade?
- Am I committed to talking about Jesus’ love to people I meet?
When talking with the girls about the use of money and time, unemployment, homelessness, poverty, ethnic cleansing … would your personal testimony of response show Jesus’ love in action?
Do you encourage the girls to be aware of the needs of others, and to be willing to follow Jesus’ example in response?
Isaiah 61: 1-3 is a prophesy about Jesus’ ministry on earth. As a disciple, are you demonstrating this same love? (Mt 25: 31-40) Ask the Holy Spirit for a fresh touch of God’s compassion.
Lord Jesus open my heart to understand more of how you feel about your world, and the part I should play in expressing your love. Help me to reach out responsibly and with your compassion.
