The concept of "The Call to Bless" is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the believer's responsibility and privilege to impart blessings upon others. This call is not merely a suggestion but a divine mandate that reflects God's character and purposes.

Old Testament Foundations

The call to bless is first evident in the Abrahamic covenant. In Genesis 12:2-3 , God promises Abram, "I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you; and all the families of the earth will be blessed through you." Here, the blessing is both a gift and a responsibility, as Abram is called to be a conduit of God's blessing to the nations.

The priestly blessing in Numbers 6:24-26 further illustrates this call: "The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace." This blessing, pronounced by the priests, was a means of invoking God's favor and peace upon the people of Israel.

New Testament Continuation

In the New Testament, the call to bless is expanded and reiterated through the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus, in His Sermon on the Mount, instructs His followers to bless even their enemies: "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). This radical call to bless those who oppose us underscores the transformative power of blessing in the life of a believer.

The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in Romans 12:14 : "Bless those who persecute you. Bless and do not curse." Paul emphasizes that blessing is an act of grace that reflects the believer's new nature in Christ and serves as a witness to the world.

Theological Implications

The call to bless is intrinsically linked to the believer's identity in Christ. As recipients of God's grace and blessing, Christians are called to extend that grace to others. This call is not limited to verbal blessings but encompasses actions that promote the well-being and flourishing of others.

The act of blessing is also a form of worship, acknowledging God's sovereignty and goodness. By blessing others, believers participate in God's redemptive work, aligning themselves with His purposes and demonstrating His love to the world.

Practical Application

In practical terms, the call to bless can be lived out through words of encouragement, acts of kindness, and prayers for others. It involves a conscious decision to seek the good of others, even at personal cost. This call challenges believers to rise above natural inclinations towards retaliation or indifference, embodying the love and grace of Christ in every interaction.

The call to bless is a profound expression of the Christian faith, inviting believers to be active participants in God's mission to redeem and restore the world. Through blessing, Christians reflect the heart of God and fulfill their role as His ambassadors on earth.