1 Corinthians 16

“Now about the collection for the saints: you should do the same as I instructed the Galatian churches. On the first day of the week, each of you is to set something aside and save in keeping with how he prospers, so that no collections will need to be made when I come. And when I arrive, I will send those whom you recommended by letter to carry your gracious gift to Jerusalem.”  1 Corinthians16:1-3 (HCSB)

A while back, I visited The Grove, a shopping area in West Hollywood. Touring the boutiques, I eventually meandered into the GAP store. At the front of the store was a huge display advertising “(RED).” (RED) was started to help eliminate AIDS in Africa. By partnering with prominent brands such as Amazon, Starbucks, Jeep, and others to create (RED) products and experiences, they raise money for the Global Fund, which brings relief to areas hard hit by disease and pandemics.

According to the World Health Organization, about 38 million people have AIDS. Approximately 25.6 million of them live in sub-Saharan Africa. No doubt, we should all pray for a cure and contribute our resources to research. The folks at the Global Fund will raise millions for that effort, and GAP and others will undoubtedly play a serious role.

What if there was a disease that made AIDS look like the common cold? What if there was a condition so deadly that it would eventually kill every living person on the face of the earth? Would you be concerned? Would you join the campaign to raise awareness, knowing it would affect you and your loved ones?

What if I told you there was a cure? It would take a vast amount of resources, but we could eventually heal every person on earth. We could inform them of their condition, show them the cure, and give them a choice to accept healing. What if the cure ensured eternal life in the favor and glory of God?

That’s precisely the kind of charity Paul is talking about. We are terminally stricken with sin until we become recipients of Jesus’ healing. We have the knowledge and resources to get the cure for everyone we meet. So, what are we doing about it? The next time you see the (RED) logo, let it bring to mind: The blood of Jesus was…RED.