We Should be Known for our Charity

“Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.’” Acts 3:6 NKJV

In a story titled, "Colin Farrell Finishes Marathon While Pushing Friend in Wheelchair" published earlier this week, it was reported that Award-winning actor and runner Colin Farrell finished the Dublin Marathon in 4:06:45 while pushing his friend in a wheelchair for the last 2.5 miles, according to The Irish Times. Farrell, 48, and Emma Fogarty, 40, have raised more than $690,000 for the charity Debra Ireland, which supports those like Fogarty living with a rare skin condition called epidermolysis bullosa. In a video on X from Saturday’s race, he asks her, “Shall we go again?” Farrell described Fogarty’s condition as more painful than running a marathon, explaining her body is “80 percent open wound,” while speaking with Seth Meyers last month… “I have known Emma for many years and she epitomizes bravery, she is what courage and pure determination are all about,” Farrell said in a statement after the race, according to the Irish Times. Epidermolysis bullosa, also known as butterfly skin, is an excruciating blistering condition of the skin, for which there is no cure. The life expectancy for severe cases is early infancy to about 35 years old. Fogarty just turned 40, and this marathon was a celebration of that milestone. Farrell is heavily involved with charity. Earlier this year, he founded the Colin Farrell Foundation in honor of his son, who has Angelman Syndrome, a neuro-genetic disorder.

And, you know, when it comes to charity, we would all do well to remember that believers are to be known for their uncommon love and generosity—and that the voluntary giving of help to someone in need that stems from that tremendous love isn’t always in the form of money. In fact, when Peter and John met a crippled beggar, rather than give the man coins, Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” In doing this, Peter showed that charity is giving to others out of the various resources that God has given us. Which means we can all be charitable givers!

So look for opportunities to use the time, talents, and treasures the Lord has blessed you with to show the love of Jesus to someone in need today my friend. After all, everything we have comes from God to be used for God

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that every one of us can and should be generous givers out of the resources You have blessed us with. Lord, please help us to see the opportunities around us to do good for your glory and to be found working hard at it. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!