By Lorie Ham
It’s that time of year again! A brand new year has come and many of us look at this time as a chance to hit the reset button-myself included. We want to do better. Diet, exercise, go to church more, spend more time with those we love, be more positive. All of those are great, but what if we aimed for something more radical? Something that Jesus would have done when He was here on earth. Help those in need.
It’s far too easy to go to church, tithe, and leave the rest to the church. But that’s not how Jesus lived. And He didn’t just help those who were easy to help; He helped those no one else wanted to help. But you may think you don’t have time, or don’t have the money to give to another charity, or to help your neighbor who is out of work. And yet, there’s still so much we can do. First off, would Jesus ever say He didn’t have time? Of course not. And if we were honest, there are things we can do a little less of and free up at least a little time each month to make a difference in the world.
Volunteer: If you give up at least one hour a month of TV, or game playing, or whatever your hobby is, and spend that time volunteering, that could make a big difference to someone in need. Local shelters, thrift stores that raise money for the poor, an animal rescue that needs someone to just give those poor animals some love, a senior citizen who is housebound and needs a ride to the doctor or just someone to play a game with them or talk to them. That neighbor out of work–maybe you can’t give them money but you could take them a casserole or help them fix up their resume. Or watch their kids for free while they go to a job interview.
Donate Money: Maybe you can’t give a lot, but how about giving up one Starbucks coffee a week and sending that money to help those in need around the world—every little bit makes a difference. One such place where you can donate was mentioned in last month’s newsletter-MCC.
So this year make a resolution you can keep. One that in its own way will change the world, not just change you. Get out there and help someone in need. If you would like some other simple but positive things you can do to make your own life better, check out this fun little article about simple positive changes you can make in your life in the new year!
Let’s change the world in 2020!
