“I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven…” – Matthew 16:19
Our world is filled with overwhelming moments. Day to day we hear of economic bad news, war and conflict across the globe, political unrest, and significant ugliness across the pages of news and social media. However, good news is in our midst as well. It seems so easily overshadowed by the bad news. But, if we will just take a moment to look around, we will see the acts of love and kindness that are being shared with the world.
I recently had the opportunity to spend some time with a wonderful and faithful group at our St. Luke’s Edmond Campus. The “InKnit” Community Group has been working hard to share love and kindness with those who are struggling with their health. They are doing so by knitting much-needed items for those who are undergoing cancer treatment. Going through cancer treatment is a long and difficult process. It takes a tremendous toll on the body. Although the treatment often saves lives, it depletes the body. Cancer patients face surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and so much more. The knitting group has been working on several wonderful creations that will go to help provide warmth and support to those who are on the journey through cancer treatment.
It was a particularly busy day when I drove to the Edmond campus to meet with the knitters and pray with them. We spent some time talking about their work. Some in the group are experts, while others are learning as they go. As I settled in to talk, I realized I was truly in a blessed moment. They opened with prayer and quickly began sharing about their wonderful handiwork. The business faded away for a moment and the joy of working to make a difference in a complete stranger’s life took over.
As we talked about the work of knitting and crocheting, I was reminded about a scripture from the Gospel of Matthew that says, “Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven…” I looked at the beautiful work in front of us and how the yarn was twisted, shaped, and bound together to make something that will provide warmth, comfort, and the knowledge that they are loved and cared for from strangers in a family of faith they have never met. They had truly bound love into their work and into the lives of those who will receive special gifts.
God has given each of us gifts and passion to help our neighbors. You may be gifted at knitting, cooking, construction, or any other number of things that allow us to convey love to others. When we apply our faith to our gifts, we uniquely bind the love of God to our work. When it is shared, it brings joy and hope to our world. Our work, done in faith, brings good news to life. Take a moment to look around today and you will see good. Use your gifts, your passion, and the love God has shared with you, and you will bring good news to our world.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
