A Time for Caring
And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. Galatians 6:9-10 ESV
As the pandemic continues to wreak havoc in this country, disciples of Jesus Christ are being called upon to step up even more to help those in need. Just yesterday alone, over 3000 people died from COVID-19. Most people know of someone who lost a loved one to COVID-19. We are all impacted by the collateral damage of the pandemic as the economy continues to struggle. I was a business owner in California who was in tears because she ran out of money to pay her employees and did not know what she was going to do.
In times like these, followers of Jesus Christ have to flex our heart muscle. We need to show the world what it means to be called a disciple of Christ by caring for others. That care can be done in a variety of ways. What we cannot do is to remain indifferent while others are losing their jobs, their loved ones, their homes, and their sanity.
This is a time for concrete action. The world needs an army of Christians to be activated for godly service. Brothers and sisters should be mending their phones, and use every form of social media at their disposal to check on others, to encourage the afflicted, and to spread the word about needs that should be met. If a believer does not have money, they can give time. If they are short on time, they can do acts of random kindness.
For the afflicted, this is the last quarter of their game of life. If we do not step in to help now, there will not be a tomorrow. It is for times like these we were created by God (Ephesians 2:10). Our neighborhood, our cities, and states are the mission fields in which we should make disciples for Christ.
Unfortunately, many churches are not going to survive the pandemic. Many believers will go astray. We have to be intentional in reaching out to brothers and sisters that are missing in action. Let us call one another and pray for each other. No brother or sister should feel alienated or defeated. We are each other’s keepers.
In the past two weeks, many of the people in my sphere of influence have had a death in their family. Others are struggling with COVID-19. Some have lost their employment. These afflicted brothers and sisters need care and concern from the body of Christ. Our brothers and sisters in prison also need our care and concern. Whereas it is a good thing to fellowship with other believers through zoom, we also have to give of our time, talents, and treasure.
We don’t have to look far and wide to find people in need. People are lining up in front of food banks and other food distribution centers so they can get groceries. Many parents with smaller children are struggling to keep up with virtual school and other social needs of their children. We should do whatever we can do to help others at this time.
The way we treat the weary and afflicted now will define our identity as disciples of Jesus Christ. It is in times of adversity our true nature rises to the fore. This winter is a time to care for the homeless. It is also a time to care for the hopeless and helpless. Whatever skill or gift we have can be used to help someone in need. So let us be fully engaged in the ministry of caring for others. Ask God to strengthen your heart muscle so you can love others as the Lord loves you.
Question for Personal Reflection
How can you demonstrate care and concern to those in need?
Prayer- Blessed Lord, please sensitize our hearts so we can show agape love to our brothers and sisters in need.
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