In Jesus Youth, you learn love in action (BJRE083)

In Jesus Youth, you learn love in action.  

To live with a compassionate heart, attentive eyes, and willing hands

(By Dr. Edward Edezhath. Published in Kairos Magazine in 2024) 

Some memories linger. One such memory is the inaugural session of the 1978 conference at SH College, attended by about 800 young people. The Bishop of Cochin was the chief guest, and I delivered the keynote address as the convener. That was a significant leap forward in our youth ministry, and we all were in high spirits. However, alongside that excitement, I had a nagging concern that I felt a bit ashamed to share with anyone. 

Later that night, the main organizers gathered to evaluate the first day and review the plans for the remainder of the conference. However, my concern grew: I wouldn’t have enough money to hire a taxi if the last bus to my village leaves. I was in my second year of college and living on a shoestring budget. I felt ashamed to reveal my financial struggles to others.

As time passed and I gathered the small group for the last meeting, Fr. Abraham approached me quietly, handed me a little envelope, and told me there was a bank cheque, a thoughtful gift from someone. That was a big surprise, but my conversation with the Lord was, ‘Hello, I cannot pay the rickshaw man tonight with a cheque.’ That was not the end. When the meeting concluded, our animator, Alicekutty, came to me and slipped something into my shirt pocket. I saw that it was some cash, and I tried to protest. “I have no part in this. Just doing what the Lord told me,” She said. I struggled to control my tears.

Indicators of Practical Love

Those were lessons for me in practicing care and sharing love. Of course, when you start giving, you begin to enjoy it. Giving is a God-given grace that we can cultivate, and there is much joy in it. We create a new world when, with Jesus in our midst, we begin encouraging and helping each other to share and serve. Where there is sharing love, there is a real community.

In this, Jesus serves as our greatest model and source of inspiration. He was not only a preacher but also someone who provided practical help. He touched and healed people, cooked meals, offered food, and even washed their feet. His disciples always remembered his words, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another” (Jn 13:35). Throughout every age, Christians have prayed, preached, and sought ways to offer genuine practical support. Tertullian, whose writings provide valuable insights into the life of early Christians, notes that in his city, people would say, “See how these Christians love one another!”

Surprisingly, I have heard similar comments about many good Jesus Youth. Where the movement takes root, some individuals are eager to love others in practical ways. I often ask groups of young people connected with the movement, “What do you find special about your group?” The response is, “There is a caring and sharing love that welcomes you here. They are always ready to offer various kinds of help.” They notice that people are attentive and loving. In many gatherings, there is food and drink provided. In countries with limited transport, they inquire how they can assist each person in attending meetings. Then, someone goes to bring them and takes them home afterward. When someone faces difficulties, even without asking, many people rally around to offer assistance. 

Is it only within a JY group? No. Many Jesus Youth are well-known as ‘Good Samaritans’ in their neighborhoods or workplaces. Recently, when a JY leader, Police Inspector Babu, received a public honor from a civic organization for his generous service, people had many memories to share about the daily assistance he provides. Additionally, whenever a natural disaster struck, many JY members would come together to offer help, mostly under the initiative and guidance of our dedicated leader, Raiju. 

With a warm heart, attentive eyes, and active hands

In the Bible, St. James speaks of the type of spirituality that God the Father desires: “Visit orphans and widows in their affliction and keep oneself unstained from the world” (1:27). Jesus similarly urges us when he says, “As you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me” (Mt. 25:40). Unfortunately, for many people, Christianity is far from the Lord’s dream. How can we practice the practical love that the Lord desires from every Christian?

i. The first step is to meet the Lord, who embodies love, and to let Him fill me with that love.

ii. Cultivate a habit of engaging with the Bible and the Church’s teachings to grasp His vision.

iii. Being part of a community that fosters generosity will inspire me to practice active love.

iv. Sitting at the feet of Jesus often heals me and inspires my heart to love.  

v. To become active in love, we may need the support of others. Most of us are accustomed to an “I-centered spirituality,” so taking small steps as a team will assist us.

vi. It requires courage to express love wherever you are. This is the hallmark of a Christian.

vii. Jesus envisions the world as his kingdom, where everyone reflects God's love and practices true kindness. Support and encourage those around you to flourish with this vision.

In my current location, there is a frequent need for volunteers to cook, clean, and assist in various capacities. Financial contributions are also essential for the operation of the facility and its projects. When individuals are invited to volunteer and contribute, they generally feel delighted to help. Some express their gratitude by saying, “Thank you for allowing us to share your work.” Many people are unaware of the effective Christian platforms that reach out to those in need. Encouraging people to volunteer and engage in love-in-action is one of the best ways to help them encounter Jesus and deepen their faith. 

Topics:

Sixth Pillar

Love in action

Outreach

Compassion