Faith in Action

At OIM, one of the ministries we perform is street outreach. Street outreach generally consists of one to two teams of two to three people who tow large wagons filled with sandwiches, snacks, cool and hot beverages, blankets, and sometimes sleeping bags. Every afternoon/evening, OIM teams of volunteers distribute the contents of their wagons to those in need living in Ottawa’s inner city. Not only do they provide these goods, but they also provide companionship, encouragement, advocacy and compassion. Why do they do this? The specifics of why are unique to each volunteer, but there is a general reason that motivates them to enter the world of the inner city, day after day, week after week, no matter the weather or the conditions of the streets.

James 2:14-26 reveals what lies at the heart of the motivation of OIM volunteers. They are driven by the gift of faith that the Spirit has placed in them. They are compelled to be the hands and feet of Christ because living faith, which resides in the heart of the Christ follower, spurs them on to love and good deeds for the sake of Christ.

Each morning, I receive a report from the team leads of our street outreach ministry. Recently, a team leader admitted that “watching [his] team share Jesus’ love with empathy, thoughtfulness, and respect was a great encouragement to” him. The team lead is not alone in being impacted by the work of the teams. In Matthew 25:34-40, Jesus explained that when His followers serve the least of those whom He knows, they are serving Him and He is joy-filled.

The work that OIM has been assigned to do is beautiful in the eyes of the Father. Those who join in the OIM mission fulfill the calling of James 2 and Matthew 25. The mission does not belong to OIM as an organization; it belongs to Christ, and OIM is simply His steward for its administration and execution within the city of Ottawa.

I invite you to join us.

~ Gerry, Executive Director