“My children, our love is not to be just words or mere talk, but something real and active.” 1 John 3:18, The Jerusalem Bible
It is easy for those of us who have enough money to provide a decent place for our family to live, enough money to feed and clothe our families, and enough money to pay our bills, to forget that we are rich in the eyes of the world because we can do those things. But as children of God we are called to do something real and active to show our love. How then shall we do that? Where shall we begin?
Quick Responses: Americans are wonderful about opening their wallets and responding with one-time donations in response to natural disasters and other catastrophic events at home and around the world. It is a response that encompasses donors for whom meeting their own needs is a struggle, as well as those who have more than enough for all their needs.
A Next-Step Resolution: Love becomes more real and active when it goes beyond our quick responses to immediate needs and asks, “What else can I do to help solve this problem, or at least make life easier for those who are dealing with it?” Taking that step typically means something in the way of a time commitment and maybe a deeper financial commitment too, but it also means a greater sense of satisfaction that we are making a difference in the world.
An All-In Commitment: In the last couple years there has been a lot written about the joy and deep satisfaction significant volunteer work adds to retirement and examples of seniors doing that. The joy of knowing you are improving life for those who can’t do any more to help themselves, is also the reason men and women of all ages step away from what looks like a comfortable life and solid career path to work with non-profits at home and abroad. They are the people who have heard God calling and responded with an all-in commitment.
Where are you in this progression? Are you ready to show your love by responding with something real and active that takes you beyond a quick response?
Blessings on your efforts to say “Yes!” when you hear God calling,
Judy Osgood