Your Neighbor Does

The Protestant Reformer Martin Luther once wrote that God does not need our good works. He went on to say that is our neighbors, the people we see and pass by every day, who are the ones who need our good works. How right Luther was.

As you think about a new year, you might be thinking about things you want to do for God. That’s not a bad thing. But keep in mind Luther’s insight. God doesn’t need your good works. Does that mean something like worship is bad because it isn’t needed? Of course not. It is commanded in Scripture, is it not?

But does God ultimately need our worship? Is he incomplete without it? No! From a biblical perspective, it would be the other way around. It is our lives that are incomplete without gratitude and praise. So, what’s the greatest thing you can do for God this year?

You can pay attention to the people you see every day. Listen to them. Let them know they are seen and heard and loved and valued. Meet real needs. I wouldn’t go as far to say that your service to others is your worship, but it is surely a reflection of it.

Consider an example of contrasting actions. Imagine a group of believers building the most exquisite cathedral the world has ever seen, a marvel to all who pass beneath its shadow. How impressive?! I for one appreciate beautiful architecture, so I’m not saying this should never be a priority. But consider an alternative.

What if that same group instead used their money to go into their community and find and meet real needs, sharing with those they help that God has met their needs so they want to pass the blessing on to the community by paying their heating bill, or buying their groceries, or keeping them from being evicted, or making sure their kids have good footwear. What difference might that make?

Which action — the cathedral or service in the community — would make most real world difference? While building monuments can have value, surely meeting needs is of greater value. God doesn’t need our buildings, but our neighbors could surely use a little help and hope from time to time.

At the end of the day, the cathedral would age. It would likely sit empty most of the days of the week. In time, sadly, it would probably sit empty all the days of the week. But the lives changed by acts of kindness might never be the same. That’s because God doesn’t need your good works. Your neighbor does.