Over the summer, we were encouraged to step out by praying for others or sharing our faith, inspired by Jesus’ words in John 14 that His followers would do the works He did—and even greater things. Now, with time to reflect, the focus turns to what actually influences our willingness to act. Our actions are shaped by what we truly believe. When it comes to faith, helping others, or sharing the gospel, the same is true. We don’t act in a vacuum; we respond based on our “why.”

Faith isn’t meant to be a transaction where we simply secure a better eternity. While heaven is central to Christian hope, this narrow view misses the ongoing reality of God’s kingdom breaking into the present through relationship, the Holy Spirit, and lived obedience. Christianity is not about managing a spiritual investment, but about responding to a living God.

Jesus’ healing of the leper in Mark 1 shows that His works weren’t just morally good deeds. They were physical expressions of spiritual truth—revealing God’s compassion, authority, and nearness. The healing restored dignity, community, and hope, pointing beyond the miracle to the Father’s heart. The man’s overflowing response wasn’t obligation; it was transformation.

Doing “greater things” flows naturally from encountering Jesus. When we’re moved by His love, sharing it with others becomes a joyful response, not an obligation.