Humankind has probably debated this notion ever since it entered the mind of Cain way back in the beginning of the first family. I believe that the implications for the Christian are quite clear, and even expanded far beyond the care for one's own biological brother. For me it has always been pretty simple. You see a need that you can fill and you fill it.

We are organized into churches to do more than win and nurture souls. We are to carry the love of God to our fellow man through practical service. That means that every good deed we do outside our church congregation needs not lead directly into the baptistry of our church. The example is beautifully demonstrated by the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ. If you were hungry, He fed you. If you were sick, He healed you. If you were discouraged, He lifted you with life-giving words of encouragement. If you were demon possessed, He freed you. If you were overtaken in sin, He forgave you.

All these loving acts could be administered without a sermon attached. Of course, when it was time to preach, none could outdo our Lord. I am sure that Jesus knew preaching is easier heard when the stomach is not growling, and that a Bible study is more readily accepted when the palsy or leprosy has been healed.

There were the miraculous times when He preached all day and then fed well over 5,000 people from a little boy's lunch. Even then, the practical was side by side with the spiritual. We must step up with more and better ways to reach the poor and the disheartened.

In a nation where billions of dollars are expended to make war and kill, the children of God must extend every effort to relieve suffering as we introduce people to the redeeming power of Jesus.

In my early tent evangelism meetings, I gave out books and magazines and even Bibles. These were precious gifts, and many realized their value. But by the time I took my tent into the inner city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, I had learned a more meaningful approach. Along with the Bibles and books, I gave groceries and gift certificates to food stores. You guessed it: the crowds flowed in to get the temporal food, and like any committed preacher I had the spiritual food ready in equal abundance. I know that many followed Jesus for "the loaves and fishes," but I also know that many attached themselves to Him for the "sincere milk of the Word."

Can I challenge you to get involved right away in your local community? Maybe there's a community services center or food pantry that needs your help. And don't stay behind the scenes. Take interest in the people you serve. Invest in their lives. Look someone in the eyes and offer a firm handshake as you help them get some food for their tables or some clothing for their backs. It's a life-changing experience, and it's exactly what Jesus would do.