LORD, we beseech thee to keep thy household the church in continual godliness, that through thy protection it may be free from all adversities, and devoutly given to serve thee in good works, to the glory of thy name, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The body of Christ is a household and we are called to serve. Acts of mercy are not an optional part of Christianity, but a critical means through which God heals our sinful nature and allows us to be vessels of His grace.