“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2 (NIV)
So many of us feel utterly alone. It’s hard to understand, in a populated world, how a person can feel this way. Most of us, at one time or another, have carried burdens and heartaches, some more than others. It’s like wearing an overstuffed backpack, weighed down, stooped-shouldered, and feeling dejected.
I remember visiting a church one time. I was going through a rough time and needed a friend. What I remembered about this church was how nobody talked or introduced themselves to me. I sat in the pew crying silently. I was shocked. I was so down that I couldn’t make the first move to introduce myself. After the service that day, people gathered with their friends and family, but still, nobody said anything to me or looked my way. I walked toward the exit where the pastor shook my hand. I felt invisible. I walked out the door that day feeling like I had lost my best friend. I never went back to that church.
We, as Christians, have gotten away from reaching out to others. Whether it’s a family member, friend, neighbor, the person sitting next to us in church, or a stranger, we need to put our cares aside, and help others. So many of us put ourselves first forgetting others who so desperately need our help. We have become a selfish society that teaches “me” instead of “you.”
Think of other’s needs. Do they need a ride to the grocery store or a doctor’s appointment? Maybe they can use help around their home, running errands, a visit. How about a leisurely ride in the country and stopping for a meal?
When in a situation where I’m not sure what to do, I ask myself two questions. The first is – What would Jesus do (WWJD)? The second question is – If Jesus knocked on my door asking for help, what would I do? I would most certainly help Him, and that in turn is what He wants us to do for others. Never turn someone away needing help, for when you do, you are turning your back on Him. 1 John 3:17 (ESV) says, “But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?” Think about that verse the next time you see someone in need or asking for help.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, there are so many people that hurt and need help. They feel alone in the world. Sometimes it’s hard to ask for help due to pride or fear of rejection. Remind us to open our eyes and hearts to the needs of others showing them love, mercy, and kindness, by reaching out and asking how we may be of help. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Written by: Laurie Davis
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