Read: James 2:18

“Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me my faih without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.”

Reflect: In James 2:18, the author makes the comparison between faith and works. Often, when we think of faith, we tend to believe it is manifested in our lives by placing our trust in the outcome with little of no consideration of the action. While it is true, the Bible teaches that salvation is something that cannot be earned by our own efforts, salvation and a changed life should lead an individual to living his or her life walking closely to the calling of Christ. One of the best ways to display the change that has taken place in one’s heart, is through our service for Him and others.

There have been many people over the years that have worked tirelessly for God and the ministry of Mt Hope Bible Camp. One such couple is Gary & Martha Rucker, formerly of Chillicothe. From the very beginning of MHBC, Gary & Martha had a love and a passion for this camp and young people that attended here. They were both early morning rises, and it was nothing to find them here at 5:00am ready to tackle whatever project was needed.

Gary’s service over the years, included cabin leader, head cabin leader as well as serving on the camp board for many years. He also played a vital role in the completion of the BAC. But his greatest contribution came in his commitment to the camp’s up keep and maintenance. Gary had a unique ability for spotting maintenance issues before they became a problem.

He passed away in 2017 after many years of faithful service to MHBC.

His wife, Martha was also a champion for the cause of MHBC. She is a spiritual giant and a true prayer warrior. Over the years, Martha worked in the camp kitchen, served as cabin leader, head cabin leader, Bible teacher and anyplace else she was needed. Many will remember her serving as the camp’s nurse year after year. Many children made it through a tough week of camp battling home sickness because of the Martha’s love and an occasional “Tic-Tac.” She and Gary also oversaw the MHBC off-season weekend camp ministry for many years.

Gary & Martha believed in the ministry and message of Mt Hope Bible Camp. Their love of God and this camp was lived out for many years. Their faithfulness to the cause of Christ and the young people that attended here, was no doubt bathed in their prayers.

As the author of James states in verse 2:18; “….I will shew thee my faith by my works.” These two individuals displayed their faith by putting it into action. Sometimes it’s not enough, to merely claim to have faith. Sometimes we need to put that faith into practice. Our actions will truly validate where our heart is. Let’s put faith into action every day.

Respond: My prayer today is that God will open up windows of opportunity for you to display your love for Him and others by serving. Be aware of those that are in need. Ask your pastor if there is something needing done around the church. Be available to help out at home. Show your family your faithfulness by being a helper around the house. Most of all, let your actions today, display the change of love and faithfulness that God has made in your life.