Hebrews 13:16 – But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. (NKJV)

Many, many years ago in the Netherlands, before big-box stores and supermarkets, different merchants delivered goods from door to door. On certain days of the week, they would come down the streets to do just that. The milkman came daily, selling milk, cheese, and other dairy products. The baker also came every day, stopping in front of the house to sell baked goods. Other merchants, such as the greengrocer, would come once or twice a week, and once a week a representative from a local grocery store would come to our house to take an order for other grocery items that we would need. The one who came to our house came from quite some distance away. He would take my mother's order, fill it, and deliver it the next day or so. Sometimes, if she had forgotten something, she would send me to his store to pick it up. It was quite some distance away.

One time, I asked Mother why she did not use the grocer nearby and why I would have to go to our usual grocer. She told me that the owner was "one of our people". In other words, he was a Christian, and we attended the same church. At that time, there was a strong feeling among brothers and sisters in Christ to help and support each other.

At the end of September, my wife and I had an appointment in a nearby city to see a denturist. She is a very nice young professional woman. We had seen her once or twice before. After she had checked our dentures this time, I asked her how much I owed her. She told me that it was just a little job, and there was no charge. I tried to talk her into charging us, but she would not hear of it. "No, it's free," she said, "one Christian to another." Words failed me — it brought tears to my eyes.

In the early church, the disciples did a lot to help those in need, so much so, that they needed help to look after all the widows. Even so long ago, those early believers in Christ supported each other. It is so good to experience, even now, that Christians are helping those in need. We did not need the denturist's free consultation, but the purpose behind her generosity is so indicative of how we can all support "our people" — our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Galatians 6:10 – Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. (NKJV)

Prayer: Our Father in heaven, we thank You for the many Christians who help others in need, especially those within the church community. May we do anything that we can to do likewise. We ask it in Jesus' name. Amen.

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About the author:

Joel Jongkind <austria67@bmts.com>
Meaford, Ontario, Canada
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