Is there someone in your life who could use help?
You can probably think of at least one person, if not more, that could use a little assistance today; maybe a family member, a neighbor, someone at work, etc. They may be going through a difficult time, or facing a challenging life circumstance, or just be sick or tired.
Often times, when we speak with those who are hurting, we end our conversation by saying, “Let me know if you need anything” thinking we are being helpful. The problem
with this blanket statement is that the person who is hurting usually can’t figure out what they “need”, so the request to let you know how to help is just another stress.
So, what do we do?
Just say, “Good luck with that” and move on? Do we NEVER offer to help?
ABSOLUTELY NOT!
But let’s be proactive in our offer.
Instead of saying, “Let me know if you need anything”, think of something concrete that you could do to help. Everyone eats dinner. Offer to supply a meal (even if it’s take out, believe me it will be appreciated!).
Or tell them you are going to mow their grass or weed their garden (no need to go in the house, so no stress on them to clean up inside.)
Offer to take their children for two hours one night next week so they can go do their grocery shopping without a circus.
Offer to drive them to an appointment, help with cleaning, wash their car, run errands, send emails, etc.
We need to “Serve each other, in love”, so let’s pull out the calendar and make a plan to actual do something!
Who are you ready to call?
Galatians 5:13b For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
Matthew 25:40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’”