Motivated By Scripture

In recent posts we have looked at the motivation for special needs ministry.  We have looked at the motivations of advocating for a cause, perspective, and love.  Each of those motivations can be powerful but their influence will be greater when partnered with Scripture.  At Grace Without Margins we have used the following verses to guide us in our ministry.  

Genesis 1:27  So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.

If we truly look at every individual we meet with the lens that God created them in His image  without exception, we will see them as Christ does.

Exodus 4:11  Who gave man his mouth?  Who makes him deaf or mute?  Who gives him sight or makes him blind?  Is it not I, the Lord?  Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.

This verse is powerful because it shows that God is in control.  He has a plan for both our weaknesses, as well as our strengths.  In addition to that, we do not need to be afraid of serving in special needs ministry because God will equip us and will teach us what to say.

Matthew 25:40  The King will reply, I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.

When we serve people that are in the margins of our church, our lives, our society, we are serving Christ.  Christ met people in the margins and extended grace, compassion, friendship and love.

Luke 14:13,14  But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind and you will be blessed.

When you give a banquet, it is special, well planned and even extravagant.  The poor, those with disabilities, and those in the margins you invite, will be greeted and treated with honor.

Luke 14:21,23  Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame...God out to the roads and country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be full.

Not only are we called to serve people with disabilities that come through the doors of our church, but we are asked to go out and bring them in.  God's house is not full until they are there!