How can we respond?

We are told that the love of God has been poured out in the hearts of believers by the presence of God the Holy Spirit (Rom. 5:5). Truly, love is a natural response for a follower of Jesus. When Jesus looked on the multitudes, their needs moved Him to compassion (Matt. 9:36). His compassion ultimately led Him to give His life on the cross.

As we witness firsthand the pain and suffering resulting from the effect of the Fall on creation, we too are moved with compassion. But how can we respond? Let me introduce you to Baptist Mid-Missions’ World Relief program.

World Relief was organized in 1971 to provide greater funding and enhancement of ministries that BMM missionaries had always been doing during times of need. When a crisis happens, World Relief offers an avenue for the compassion of believers to meet the needs of the hurting. We identify BMM missionaries who can serve as conduits of the relief funds. If one of our missionaries is not present in the affected area, we seek someone connected with a gospel-preaching church or ministry with whom we can partner to provide aid.

Relief that opens doors

These funds have been used to supply the necessities of life, such as food and water. Other times World Relief has helped to rebuild church buildings and homes that have sustained damage. In times like a global pandemic, relief funds have helped to pay for travel to hospitals and for medical care. God has poured out His mercy on believers and unbelievers alike through World Relief efforts.

The help provided by the World Relief program opens doors for missionaries, national pastors, and believers to minister to the physical needs of those within their communities. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus shows us that, at times, loving our neighbor involves caring for their physical wellbeing. As missionaries and national believers are equipped to provide aid, their relief efforts open doors to share the good news of Jesus’s love with those who are hurting.

Let us do good to all

As relief funds are applied, believers in the midst of crises experience the love of God from their brothers and sisters whom they have never met. We are encouraged in Galatians 6:10, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” World Relief provides just such an opportunity.

Would you prayerfully consider donating to Baptist Mid-Missions’ World Relief program? The next time you read or hear of a natural or man-made disaster, remember that there is an option of how you can be a blessing to those enduring these events. In giving to World Relief, you are helping to open doors for sharing the gospel, and you are following Jesus’ command for believers to love one another.

Read more in the article "World Relief: Equips Missionaries and Nation Christians".