Start Now

The last couple weeks, I feel like God has really been encouraging me to see, to actively see, the people around me with need, and to do something about it. 

I think sometimes as people, as Christians, we can fall into a posture of "If God tells me to do something, I'll do it" The problem with that is, either God isn't terribly interested in helping people, we almost never encounter people who need help, or this is a statement that causes and enables us to be complacent and inactive. At least, that's been my story.

As I've been walking out, having active eyes to see, I have been blown away by the need, and so moved as I play a small part in helping to meet the need. 

There are two major lessons I've learned in this, that I want to pass along to you.

First, I have learned that there are far more opportunities than I knew. I have a ten minute drive to work, and I pass half a dozen people at least each way that need some help. Sometimes that's the person standing on the corner with a sign, sometimes it's the person who's battery is dead and needs a jump, and sometimes it's the person in line in front of me counting pennies to afford their meager purchase. The opportunities are there, that isn't the problem. 

Second, I have learned that the act of helping, in love, with generosity, is sometimes all that is needed. I have found myself feeling the pressure of turning a cup of coffee for a person in line into a spiritual conversation, when all I really need to do is love them, maybe throw in a "God bless you!" and be comfortable just moving on. Sometimes the conversation continues, sometimes it doesn't, either way, I've done what God has challenged me to do, and good things are coming from it.

So here is my challenge... Start now, start seeing, and start stepping out. Don't put too much pressure on the moment. Also, please don't miss a moment waiting for God to open up the heavens.

Matthew 25:35-40 For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’

The heavens already opened, He already told us, so let's get going.