At our church in Owen Sound, Ontario, Canada, we have hostess groups that provide a service within our church family, serving lunches and other light refreshments following funerals, or for birthdays, anniversaries, and other church-related activities, as requested.

Recently, two of the hostess groups had prepared a luncheon following a funeral. There were leftovers, and the family wanted to help others out by giving them this abundance. There was no problem for the hostess groups to find a place to take the leftovers where they would be well received and appreciated. However, on the way, while packing up the food in the car at the front of the church, they spotted six men lounging. So, they went over to them and asked if they would be interested in some sandwiches from a funeral. All but one came alive and graciously accepted. They started eating the sandwiches immediately and exclaimed how good they were. You could see the joy on their faces. It was a little thing to do, but what a difference it made to them!

The rest of the food was delivered to the original destination, and, as always, it was readily accepted with open arms. Not everyone is as blessed as we are. God is forever sending people in our path to be helped.

We also have a pantry at our church, and every Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., people come and receive a bag of groceries and often, a frozen meal prepared in advance by our faithful volunteers. What a wonderful outreach to our community!

When we open our eyes and look at all the problems in the lives of people around us, we'll realize how good we have it. We are all called to help people in need. When we begin helping other people, we're doing God's work!

What does it look like in our daily lives as Christians to share each other's troubles and problems? Do we act, or pass them by? It's the little things that count — over and over and over — like sharing leftover sandwiches from a funeral reception with the homeless or preparing food to hand out every week.

Romans 15:2-3a – Each one of us needs to look after the good of the people around us, asking ourselves, "How can I help?" That's exactly what Jesus did. He didn't make it easy for himself by avoiding people's troubles, but waded right in and helped out. (MSG)

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we are so blessed! Give us hearts that care for those around us and help us to reach out to those in need. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Dee Renaud <dee.renaud@outlook.com>
Sauble Beach, Ontario, Canada
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