S.O.S.

I'm just like you, you're just like me...we're all human beings - flesh and blood. We all have times in our lives when we could use a little boost. Maybe its as simple as a pat on the back, an encouraging word, a small gift...a smile, a sweet card or even a homemade meal or a piece of pound cake. Sometimes the smallest thing done in a kind, loving manner can be just the dose of encouragement someone might need to brighten their day and help them hang on a little bit longer. 

There are hurting and needy people all over our world, in our country, state, neighborhood...and our local churches. We might not be able to make much of a difference in those far away, but we have every opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those we rub shoulders each week. What would happen if we took notice of a fallen countenance and said a prayer then reached out, wrote a note or offered to lend a helping hand...or just simply offered our hand to hold. What would happen if we stopped long enough to meet a need? To show compassion?

That's what Jesus' ministry here on earth included. As He went about teaching from city to city, He saw needs, was moved with compassion and reached out to touch those people. He touched them. He sat down with them. He ate with them. He spoke. He cared. He loved enough to temporarily cease His travels to take time for them. He showed us there are needs everywhere, He gave us an excellent example to follow and showed us there's a reward in caring for someone else and meeting a need if we are able.

Now, I know you and I can't meet every need and fix every problem. Only God can do that. Like I said, we're human; however, there are things we can do to make a difference - to lighten someone's load. That's what I'm talking about. We each have a unique, God-given way to do so. He's given us each abilities and strengths to, in our own way, reach out and make a difference. Let's not be intimidated to do so. The Bible is packed full of commands to prefer our brother, to show love and to serve. Let's do it. It is rewarding and it always comes full circle.

Someone in need is waiting right now, for us to put our own agendas aside and reach out to them. Will we take the challenge? Will we answer the call for help and allow God to help us make a difference? Not in a big, outlandish way...just a small, simple gesture will do. It's a blessing...I bet you can't do it just once!

"For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, 

which ye have shewed toward his name, 

in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister."  

Hebrews 6:10