Despite numerous participations in worship and ministries, believers can still reflect on the question, "What does faith truly mean to me?"
Last Sunday, a man caught my attention. He appeared to be somewhat slow-witted, not someone with typical intelligence. Though in his forties, his behavior was childlike. During other parts of the worship service, he seemed unable to follow along. Yet, when it came to singing the confession hymn, surprisingly, he knew the lyrics and joined in singing. While his singing wasn't accurate, he was fully engaged and seemed no different from anyone else. Once the hymn ended, though, he became dazed again.
For this brother, life has been painful. It’s unclear whether he was born this way or if some later illness caused him to remain with a childlike intellect, unable to live like a typical adult. Yet, in the Lord, he found joy in that moment. Though he understood less than others, he worshipped with limited intelligence and enjoyed the Lord's abundant grace.
Compared to this brother, we are far more blessed. If even he can worship the Lord, why can't we?
Faith should be the hope in Christians’ lives; nothing is more important than this. If individuals direct all attention to the present and the trivialities of daily life, they risk losing the true and most beautiful meaning of life.
Faith should also be a key factor in forming believers' moral values. It imparts self-discipline and meaning to morality, helping individuals do what is right and glorify the name of the Lord.
Faith can also help individuals find the true meaning of life. It enables believers to discern the direction of their lives and understand the path ahead.
Christian faith guides followers to walk in God's blessing and grace. Believers can reside in His blessing for a lifetime so long as they remain steadfast.
Jesus is not only a Lord who heals diseases but also the hope of all mankind. There is no one greater than him.
(Originally published by the Christian Times, the article has been edited under permission and the author is a millennial minister at a church in China. )
- Edited and translated by Poppy Chan