The text emphasizes the timeliness and relevance of the topic of immigrants and refugees, urging acceptance by recounting the story of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus fleeing to Egypt. It calls for overcoming cultural and language differences to extend a helping hand to the needy, in line with the Gospel call.

Biblical references in Deuteronomy 10:19, Psalm 146:9, Romans 12:13, and Leviticus 23:22 underline the important theme of mercy and care for strangers and the needy. The essence of these verses reminds us that God has a heart for those who are strangers, and we are called to assist them in their time of need.

The challenge of standing in solidarity with people who look different, speak a different language, and have different religious values is presented as a litmus test for the Gospel. The call to leave the ethnic, national, and cultural comfort zone emphasizes the need to actively advocate for integration and mutual understanding.

The practical steps suggested begin with prayer and gathering information about immigrants and refugees. By collaborating with organizations or starting a community service, concrete actions can be taken to provide support. The encouragement to make even a small contribution emphasizes that every effort, no matter how modest, can make a difference.

The question at the end of the text encourages personal reflection on how to help immigrants or refugees in one’s own environment. This raises awareness of individual responsibility and urges creative and concrete action, even if they are small steps. Overall, the text strongly urges not to overlook the needs of immigrants and refugees but actively engage in supporting them.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-8-mission-to-the-needy-8-3-refugees-and-immigrants/

Today, let us reflect together on a significant theme: the question of the origin of all things. In our contemplation, we will focus on the “cosmological” argument, leading us to recognize the existence of God as the most logical explanation for creation.

The basic idea of the cosmological argument is simple: nothing arose by itself, and nothing created itself. Everything created was brought into existence by something that existed before. This chain of causes continues until we reach something uncaused, something that has always existed and was never nonexistent. This uncreated reality, eternally existing, is, as we believe, the God described in Holy Scripture.

Let’s look at some verses that provide insight into the origin of all things:

1. Revelation 4:11: “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will, they were created and have their being.”

2. Colossians 1:16–17: “For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him, all things hold together.”

3. John 1:1–3: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him, all things were made; without him, nothing was made that has been made.”

These verses show us that the most logical explanation for creation is an eternally existing God. In contrast, some thinkers claim that “nothing” created the universe. Even prominent scientists like Stephen Hawking held this view. However, as Christians, we must remember the crucial truth expressed in 1 Corinthians 3:19: “For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight.”

It is essential to keep this truth in mind because in a world often seeking other explanations for creation, we know that our conviction of an eternal and omnipotent God is the only logical and true answer to the question of the origin of all things.

Let us pray together in this awareness and thank God for His wisdom and revelation.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/god-and-human-suffering-the-logical-explanation-for-creation-nothing-came-from-itself/

Ellen White presents a clear five-step process that can serve as a guide to effectively and compassionately serve.

The first step, mingling among the helpless and spending time with them, emphasizes the importance of personal engagement and empathetic closeness. The mention of Jesus being among the sick and suffering underscores that true help occurs where it is most needed.

Compassion as the second step highlights that service without authentic compassion loses its impact. It is a challenge but also a divine call to show compassion without expecting anything in return. This aligns with Jesus’ example of showing compassion to people before inviting them to follow him.

The third step emphasizes the need to address the specific needs of people. It is stressed that true help is not just in words but also in actions. Examples from the reports of Jesus show that he not only spoke but also acted to fulfill the needs of people.

Gaining trust as the fourth step emphasizes that a trusting relationship is the foundation for any effective help. Through authentic service and addressing needs, trust can be built, paving the way for the fifth step.

The final step, leading people to Jesus, emphasizes the ultimate purpose of service. It is not just about satisfying material needs but also about presenting people with the life-changing message of Jesus.

In conclusion, the text asks about the opportunities to help those in need. It encourages being creative and resourceful in finding ways to assist needy people in our own life situations. This could be through attention, listening, support, or prayer, even if we may not perform the same miracles as Jesus.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-8-mission-to-the-needy-8-2-christs-method-alone/

Today, we want to collectively turn our attention to the fascinating theme: “God in Nature.” This perspective on creation opens a deeper view of God’s existence and His workings in our world.

In Romans 1:18–20, the Apostle Paul speaks of God’s revelation through the created world. He emphasizes that the reality and existence of God are clearly revealed through the “made” world, leaving humanity “without excuse” for unbelief. Nature itself is a living testimony to the existence and nature of God. In the details of creation, we can recognize His power, wisdom, and goodness.

The irony Paul addresses is present in our modern times as well. Science has granted us deeper insights into the wonders of creation, and as life appears more complex, chance or probability becomes less plausible as the cause for this complexity. An iPhone, obviously designed, is recognized as a product of design. But humans, equally obviously designed, with internal and external design, are supposed to have randomly emerged? These thoughts can mislead many.

In Job 12:7–10, we see how Job views nature as a reflection of God’s reality. Even though nature, especially in its fallen state, does not reveal the entire character of God, it still shows His creative power and aspects of His goodness.

Which aspects of nature particularly show you the power and goodness of God? Perhaps the majestic mountains, the rushing waterfalls, or the delicate blossoms in spring. Each of us has our own experiences in nature that reflect God’s greatness and love.

In these moments of contemplation, we can draw strength and encouragement. Nature reminds us that the Creator of this world also holds our lives in His hands. May our hearts flourish in gratitude and admiration as we contemplate the wonders of nature, inspiring us to recognize the beauty and greatness of God in each day.

Let us pray together and thank God for His glorious creation.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/god-and-human-suffering-revelations-of-his-power-and-goodness-god-in-nature/

The account of friends bringing their helpless companion to Jesus is truly inspiring. It shows us that true friendship involves not only words but also actions. Despite facing obstacles, these men took responsibility for caring for their friend. This story reminds us that sometimes it requires creative and unconventional approaches to help people and lead them to Christ.

The faith and determination of these men are remarkable. They didn’t let difficulties discourage them but found an innovative way to bring their friend to Jesus. This challenges us to be creative in our own service and not give up when traditional methods fall short.

The text also underscores the importance of recognizing the needs of people around us and helping them, whether they are friends, neighbors, or strangers. Ellen White encourages us not to be passive but to proactively reach out to the needs of the helpless, distressed, and needy.

The call to lead people to Jesus, portrayed as the great Physician bringing forgiveness and healing, is an encouraging reminder that we can all contribute to improving the lives of others. The question at the end of the text, asking who around us needs help and what we will do for them, prompts reflection and encourages taking concrete steps to assist the needy and lead them to Christ.

May this text inspire us to be proactive, demonstrate our faith through actions, and support those around us in need.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-8-mission-to-the-needy-8-1-the-faith-of-friends/