Earlier this week two of our congregation members walked away from their big family gathering. No, there wasn’t an argument. There wasn’t a fight. They didn’t leave because they had another event booked that clashed with their family time.
It brought much encouragement to us to see these congregation members take the time to go above and beyond to help someone in the community who was in need of great help. Without hesitation they got up and left, spending close to five hours driving, assisting and sorting out this problem.
Justin and I have been going through the book of Philippians together, and one of the verses I love is this,
“Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Philippians 2:4
It’s easy to put our own interests before others. It’s easy to prioritise our wants, our families and friends before someone we barely know. But Christ is our perfect Saviour and our great example. He came down to die on the cross, not just for His close family and friends, but for many others who didn’t spend much time with Him. As we look to see Christ extending love to the world, though it was inconvenient and extremely painful, we are to strive to be like Him and sacrificially love those around us.
May I encourage you to spend time reflecting on how you can help someone in need. Perhaps you could spare a moment during the week to help that someone you are thinking of. Is there someone who is in need of a listening ear? Or someone who needs help getting from one place to another? Is there someone who is struggling financially, or someone who just needs you to say a prayer or to give words of encouragement?
How will you go above and beyond to love someone this week?
Dear God,
Help me to love others as you have loved us. We are forever grateful for your love and sacrifice for us. Please give us the strength and courage to love others when we see the need, even if it is at our own expense.
In Jesus name I pray,
Amen.