HELPING PEOPLE I CAN SEE HELPS THOSE I CAN’T
That’s important to remember.
Years ago, we squeezed our big family into a little car and headed to Washington, DC for the Fourth of July weekend. Halfway there, tempers flared when we realized there were no hotel vacancies, and we would have to drive sixteen hours before we could sleep in beds at my sister’s house. We survived and after resting comfortably, we headed to the district.
PEOPLE IN NEED
For the first time, I saw a homeless person. Even though it was hot, he had on layers of clothing and two hats. He guarded a shopping cart with his frail body while digging through a garbage bin. I wasn’t prepared to see that, especially in the nation’s capital.
I remembered grumbling the night before and determined to appreciate the comforts I enjoyed.
Not long ago, I was discouraged to learn how many children in my community go to bed hungry. I decided to buy food for the backpack program.
Twice in my life, I’ve learned that co-workers had an abortion during their weekend break. Both times, I promised to pray for them.
When I learned of these desperate situations, my reactions were woefully late and inadequate.
GOD IS MINDFUL
Thank God he is mindful of us – not just our plight.
Psalm 8:4 says, “What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?”
THE SEEN
I must resolve to be proactive helping people I come in contact with. If I learn to see others through the eyes of God, they will become valuable to me, and I will find ways to build relationships that go beyond the casual, “I’ll pray for you.” How much hopelessness can be averted if I invest both my time and resources with people God puts on my path?
THE UNSEEN
During this period when the sanctity of human life before birth is highly debated, I must be frank with myself. How can I help the ones I can’t see –the unborn – if I don’t involve myself with the weak and vulnerable people that I can see?
STAY IN TOUCH AND READ MORE ABOUT HOW TO SEE THROUGH THE EYES OF GOD IN MY GRACE WARRIOR DEVOTIONAL SERIES
Beautifully written!!
So very well said and even more true than we can ever imagine!
Thank you. Building relationships for the Kingdom is what it’s all about.
I remember going to DC with Ross’ band. That is most likely the first time I came in contact with a homeless person as well. They were on the sidewalk right by our hotel. You could look out the window and see them scattered throughout the area.
We were instructed by the tour guide not to acknowledge them. I think back now how I accepted that, but I guess my mind was focused on the student’s safety at the time.
But what did that teach them? To treat the homeless like nobodies.
I guess we get overwhelmed by the seemingly insurmountable needs all over the world. When I saw the heading of your blog it really spoke to me.