RESPONSIBILITY FOR IMPACT (1)

“So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal....” – Luke 10:34a

God places high value on RESPONSIBILITY for IMPACT: “But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion. So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him” (Lk.10:33-34). The parable of the Good Samaritan illustrates the importance of showing compassion and caring for the needy. True Love for a neighbour extends beyond mere words to actions, showing compassion and helping those in need, regardless of their social standing or personal biases.

The story centres on a man who was robbed, beaten, and left for dead. A priest and a Levite passed by without helping, but a Samaritan, who was traditionally considered an enemy, stopped, cared for the man, and arranged for his continued care. The Lord concluded: “Go and do likewise” (v.37). A “neighbour” is not defined by race, religion, or social status, but by whoever reaches out with a helping heart and hands, showing mercy. Responsibility turns COMPASSION into ACTION! Right from creation, God gave responsibility to Humankind to steward His creation through decisions and actions that honour Him.

Responsibility means taking ownership of our choices and actions, especially those that affect others and the world around. Kingdom responsibility is about living a life that reflects God’s Character, actively participating in Church and community, and sharing His Love with the world. Responsibility comprises the duties and obligations individuals have as members of God’s Kingdom, which could be at the levels of personal conduct, community involvement, and global mission. Impact refers to the ripple effects of these actions, either positive and negative, on individuals, communities, and society at large.

Personal Conduct includes: Living righteously, serving God acceptably, and following His Word. Believers are called to live to honour God, reflecting His Character in daily choices and interactions. Serving God should be a response to His Call, rather than a means to gain titles or recognition. Community Involvement infers loving and serving others, being a positive influence, using our God-given gifts to show care and compassion within our communities, and striving to promote peace, justice, and righteousness, while using our unique talents and gifts for the benefit of the kingdom and the world.

Believers’ Global Mission comprises: sharing the good news of Jesus with the world, making disciples and building up the church; addressing issues of social injustice, poverty, and oppression of the marginalized and vulnerable; and demonstrating the Love and Grace of God to the world through actions and words. Matthew 5: 13-16 emphasizes the need for Believers to be the salt of the earth, the light of the world, and a city set on a hill, suggesting the responsibilities to be positive influences, shining God’s Light into darkness and making a positive impact.