I recently returned from spending some time away visiting family.  I had the pleasure of attending church services with a member from each side of my family. In each situation, I very much enjoyed the message given during the sermon. This week, I will share the message of the first service I attended. 

The lay pastor from the first service focused his lesson on service to others and shared examples of what their church was already doing in this area. He then urged the congregation to search their hearts and pray about what else they can do to assist those in need, giving from their own abundance and blessings. He gave additional examples of areas where there was need within their own church, in their community and of course world-wide. Many that were sitting around us shared they weren’t aware there were these needs within their own church

I have always believed people need to be made aware of the needs of those around them because they aren’t always privy to that information. When I was teaching and we had a troubling student, I felt the parents should be aware of what was happening. If they were not aware, they could not help their child (and us) rectify the situation. If they were aware, they could help us deal with the issues. If they chose not to assist us with their child or, we then knew we had to take a different approach.

The same can be said for the needs of the church.  If a congregation does not know there are difficulties that need addressing, we can’t expect their help. This lay pastor was making them aware so their church members could offer assistance as needed.

He ended the sermon with the words, “Live simply so others may simply live”. Those words stuck with me and I have thought about them many times in the past few weeks. I decided to share them with you. Giving financially is not the only way to give as not everyone is in the position to do so, but we can also give of our time and talents. Sometimes that is even more beneficial.

Hebrews13:16 tells us Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

Through the abundance of God’s unconditional love for us, let us assist others to the glory of God as He would like us to do.  Thanks be to God.

Patty