Pastor Berry’s book about supporting Shelters by Jesus is based on walking with Christ, following his steps, and finding charity and kindness in the heart.

A cornerstone of Christian life is charity. While we may imagine it as simply giving, it transcends the act. Charity is walking with Christ. It is an act that embodies a divine love. And this love is something that extends beyond material possessions. Charity urges us towards a transformative relationship with God, our neighbors, and ourselves. 

The concept of charity finds its bedrock in God’s unconditional love for humanity. The Bible portrays God as a compassionate being who desires a loving relationship with his creation (John 3:16). This love is exemplified in the ultimate act of sacrifice: Jesus Christ’s death on the cross (Romans 5:8). 

Christians are called to reflect this love in their own lives, extending it outwards in acts of charity so they may be walking with Christ in their hearts. So, let us delve into the essence of charity in Christianity, exploring its biblical foundation, core characteristics, and practical implications in daily life.

Walking with Christ

While acts of giving are often associated with charity, true Christian charity goes deeper. It is not simply about alleviating material suffering but about embodying the spirit of Christ-like love. This love is characterized by several key attributes. The first and most important of which is selflessness. Charity prioritizes the needs of others above our own. It is not motivated by self-gain or recognition but by a genuine desire to serve and uplift those in need (Matthew 22:39). The second thing is compassion. True charity stems from empathy and a deep concern for the suffering of others. It compels us to see the world through their eyes and respond with compassion (1 Peter 3:8). Justice is another thing to consider. Charity goes hand-in-hand with a desire for justice. Walking with Christ means addressing the root causes of what makes us impoverished, oppressed, and unequal (Micah 6:8). Christian love often requires sacrifice. It may involve giving our time, resources, or even comfort to meet the needs of others (Mark 8:34-35). We must also remember that charity extends even to those who have wronged us. It calls for forgiveness and reconciliation, reflecting the forgiveness God offers us (Matthew 6:14-15).

Charity and Kindness in the Heart

The essence of charity manifests in a multitude of ways within Christian life. It can be an act of direct service. When you volunteer at soup kitchens, shelters, or mentoring programs, it is anything that allows us to meet the needs of those in our communities directly. It can be financial giving. By sharing our financial resources with charities, churches, or individuals in need, we express our love in a tangible way. An oft-mentioned act of charity is advocacy. Raising awareness about the inequities of the world and promoting action reflects our desire for a more just and loving world. Hospitality is also a much-needed realization of charity. Welcoming strangers, the marginalized, or those in need into our homes and hearts embodies Christ’s message of inclusion. Yet, the simplest showcase is kindness and forgiveness. Simple acts of kindness, a listening ear, or offering forgiveness can have a profound impact on the lives of those around us.

Living out the essence of charity requires ongoing motivation and discernment. Walking with Christ produces a harvest of blessings, not just for the recipient but also for the giver.

• Serving others and reflecting on God’s love brings genuine joy and fulfillment that surpasses material possessions.
• Charity fosters stronger communities, fostering connection and a sense of shared responsibility.
• Actively living out our faith through charity strengthens our faith, offering us a better connection with God.

Reflecting Love

The essence of charity in Christianity is a call to action. It is a call to love God and our neighbors with a love that mirrors the boundless love of Christ. By embodying this love in our thoughts, words, and deeds, we contribute to building a more just, compassionate, and loving world. 

Pastor Richard Berry’s book about supporting Shelters by Jesus is based on walking with Christ, following his steps, and finding charity and kindness in the heart.