Dear La Côte family and friends,
The Christian faith is not merely a set of beliefs to be held. It is a way of life to be lived. Both our Lord Jesus and the apostle Paul taught that discipleship is expressed through our actions. The faith we profess becomes visible in the way we treat others, the choices we make, and the values we embrace.
In his letter to the Christians in Rome, Paul presents a stark contrast between two masters: sin and righteousness. He reminds them that they are no longer slaves to sin but have been set free through Christ. Yet freedom in Christ is not freedom to live for ourselves. Rather, it is freedom to offer our lives to God. Every act of kindness, every generous gesture, every choice to serve rather than to be served becomes an offering of ourselves to God.
Jesus gives a practical example of what this looks like when he speaks about welcoming others in his name. Those who receive a disciple receive Christ himself, and even the simple act of giving a cup of cold water to one of his followers will not go unnoticed by God. Hospitality, therefore, is not just good manners; it is a spiritual practice. In welcoming others, we welcome Christ. In caring for those in need, we participate in God's work of love.
Jesus assures us that none of these actions are insignificant. God sees them all. The smallest act done in love becomes part of his kingdom's work. As people redeemed by grace, we are invited to use our freedom not for ourselves but for the service of others.
May we therefore offer ourselves daily as servants of righteousness, allowing God's grace to flow through us in acts of hospitality and generosity. And may those who encounter us find not merely our kindness, but the welcome and love of Christ himself.
Betty Talbot
