Reaching Out and Giving
This sermon will be short and to the point. Although many of us get excited and happy during the Christmas season, a lot of people get depressed. There are vast numbers of people who are alone and lonely. Others suffer depression due to losing loved ones, being deserted by family members, or because they are reliving bad memories. No matter what the reason, far too many people are not happy during this beloved season.
There is much we can do to comfort and help the hurting if we are aware and motivated to reach out. Jesus had much to say about how we should treat others, but the following is the scriptural motto of our church, which tells you everything that is important to know. Matthew 25:35-40:
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.”
Then the righteous will answer Him, “Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?”
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.”
Notice how Jesus uses the word “righteous” to describe those who request an explanation of what He is teaching us. Last week my sermon discussed what it means to be righteous and how God rewarded people in the Bible depending on their righteousness. Not their perfect behavior or sinless life, but those who acted in a righteous manner with the right heart.
Jesus expects us to reach out to others and give whatever we can. Maybe it’s a hug, a smile, some of your time, a small gift, clothing, or food. Maybe it is all of that. “For each will give according to their heart.” (summarized from 2 Corinthians 9:7-15) It is often said that “we are only blessed to be a blessing.” This statement comes from a compilation of several scripture verses that tell us to bless others. Any way we look at it, God expects us to share the blessings He has bestowed upon us with others. Since many people suffer in silence it is our job to SEEK OUT those who need our help and offer whatever we are able to give.
Here are a few ideas:
- Carry envelopes with cash and an encouraging scripture verse with you and hand them out when you see a person in need.
- Keep a supply of water, snacks and/or hygiene items in your car so you always have something useful to give.
- Carry dog food to give to homeless people who have a dog. We do that and it is well received and appreciated.
- When you see someone who seems sad, ask them. Caring is sharing!
- Don’t be afraid to hug a stranger who is struggling.
- Smile at everyone!
- Instead of donating clothing, put some in your car to hand out. Especially sweaters, jackets and socks during the cold season. Blankets are appreciated as well.
I am sure you can think of other ways to be prepared to make a difference and follow the precepts of the Holy Bible. As 2 Corinthians (above) states, “You give as your heart decides.” However, you must first decide to be a blessing to others and then you need to be PREPARED to give to others in need.
Obviously added to the above ideas you can visit shelters, homes for the elderly and/or abused children. You can volunteer to serve food. You can collect from your neighbors, then go and disperse your collected items to underserved neighborhoods.
There are innumerable ways you can give to others, but first, your heart has to be in the right place. Remember what Jesus said above “That which you have done for the least of my brothers and sisters, you have done for me.” Amen.
Sending love, hugs, and blessings as you begin or improve your journey/efforts to become a blessing to others each and every day. Lisa ><>
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