Q:
Have you ever had someone say to you that Christians are so heavenly minded that they aren't any earthly good? That's what my brother says whenever I try to talk to him about Jesus.
A:
Yes, I’ve heard people say this, and frankly, it’s always puzzled me. Instead of trying to escape from the world and its problems, over the centuries Christians have worked to make this world a better place.
Think of it: How many hospitals and schools and orphanages have been built across the world in the name of Christ? How many homeless shelters and humanitarian aid programs began because of someone’s commitment to Jesus? Every year, the organization my son Franklin heads, Samaritan’s Purse, brings hope and assistance to millions of people in over 100 countries in the name of Christ (as do many other Christian organizations). The list is almost endless, and they do it because “Christ’s love compels us” (2 Corinthians 5:14).
Why do they do this? One reason is because of Jesus’ example. No one talked more about heaven, and by His death and resurrection, no one did more to make it possible for us to go there. But Jesus also healed the sick and fed the hungry, and told His disciples to do likewise. The Bible says, “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless” (Matthew 9:36).
When we come to Christ, we also begin to see the world through His eyes. We see those who are hungry or suffering or the victims of injustice, and Christ’s love makes us act. Pray for your brother, and urge him to face these facts honestly. The Bible says, “Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (Colossians 3:12).