“Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people.” Matthew 4:23 There are people who don’t know Jesus who have a heart to help others. They feed the hungry, drill wells for those who need water, care for the ill, clothe the naked, and respond to tragedies. It is admirable. So, what makes what we do “Christian” and “godly” and their actions just “good works”? Good question. Look at what it says in this passage. Jesus was engaging people where they were. As He went, He taught the already convinced or seeking. But along with caring for their sick, He proclaimed the Good News of the Kingdom. That is the difference. If we care for the needs of people but never proclaim the Good News, it will help them for this world but leave them stuck in their lostness. It is vital that we also tell them about Jesus and His Kingdom. As we say, our desire is that every man, woman and child
“Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.” John 12:1-3 There is always more going on than simply what is going on. And in every situation, we know God is always doing more. In this picture, a party in Jesus’ honor was being held. Let’s take some snapshots. Martha, the task-oriented one, the planner and doer, was busy serving the meal. She was concerned that she had no help. Lazarus was enjoying company with Jesus. Mary, the one who feels deeply, anoints Jesus’ feet and wipes it with her hair. Judas, the treasurer, criticizes. And others who heard about the party and also how Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead