I have always loved the Bible. From my earliest days in church when I was encouraged to read it daily, I have been fascinated by its stories.

One of the many things I love about the Bible is its practicality for every part of our lives. If Jesus really is who he says he is, then he is relevant to all of our lives and he wants to be Lord of every part of his creation.

We have often understood Jesus being Lord as meaning he is Lord over our personal lives. This is of course true, but if we leave it there we actually shortchange the Gospel. The Good News of Jesus is much bigger than our personal relationship with him.

That’s why I feel so privileged to be able to do what I can to alleviate poverty in the world. In doing so, we are doing the very work of God.

Alleviating poverty is not just a humanitarian act; it is an act of worship. Jesus says in Matthew 25 that whenever we feed someone who is hungry, we are feeding Christ himself. Consider that for a moment. By feeding the hungry we are actually serving God.

As I think about how the Bible and feeding the hungry come together so naturally, it excites me that World Vision is partnering with the Bible Society on a devotional series for 40 Hour Famine participants. What better way to promote God’s work than to encourage both Bible reading and feeding the hungry!

You are probably aware that there are over 2,000 verses in the Bible which relate to poverty and justice. As we read our Bibles then, our relationship with God should naturally lead us to concern about what is at the very heart of God’s concern for the world. Jeremiah reminds us of this when he says that to know God is to care for the poor and needy. (Jeremiah 22:16)

When an organisation like World Vision partners with the Bible Society, the fit is a natural one. As we study the Scriptures in the lead-up to the 40 Hour Famine, may we be touched in the core of our being by God’s heart for those living in poverty. May our hearts be broken by the things that break the heart of God and healed by doing his work.

To sign up for the 40 Hour Famine and accompanying devotional material, go to 40hourfamine.com.au/church

Image: The Global Orphan Project