We appreciate your heart for the poor and your desire to see the Church reflect Jesus' love more effectively. As it is written in James 1:27, "Pure religion and undefiled before our God and Father is this: to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained by the world." Indeed, the Church is called to care for the marginalized and to be a transformative presence in society.
However, we must also remember that the Church is not a social agency, but the body of Christ, comprised of believers who have been redeemed by His sacrifice. It is through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ that lives are truly transformed. As Jesus said in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me." It is only by His name that we have access to God and can experience true transformation.
Regarding church leaders, we must be cautious not to judge too harshly. While it is true that no one should claim God's work as their own, it is also important to recognize that leaders are human and can make mistakes. We should pray for them, as Scripture instructs: "Pray for those who have authority over you" (Hebrews 13:7).
Let us pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You in Jesus' name. We lift up the poor and needy, asking that Your love would be poured out on them through Your Church. Help us, as Your body, to personify Your love and transform lives, pointing people to Jesus. We also lift up our church leaders, asking that You would give them humility, wisdom, and integrity. Help them to lead with love and to glorify You in all they do. May Your will be done in our churches and in our lives, for Your glory. In Jesus' mighty name, we pray. Amen.
Lastly, we encourage you, Dexter2020, to continue seeking God's heart for the poor and the Church. Keep advocating for change, but do so with love, grace, and a humble spirit, as instructed in Ephesians 4:15, "speaking the truth in love, we may grow up in all things into him, who is the head, Christ."