Like most families, we have our morning routine.  Today was no different.  I woke both children up and prompted them to begin getting ready.  I walk away for 10 minutes busying myself with odd things only to return to confirm they have followed directions and started dressing themselves.  My son, the rooster of the family, had already dressed himself and was watching videos on the YouTube Kids app.  As I entered, he began showing his phone to me and said with excitement, “I really want to do this!!!”  Normally, it’s some crazy video about creating slime or performing some daring feat.  This particular video was of a few young children walking around handing out presents to random people at Christmas.  You could see the joy and desire in his eyes as he continued watching.  He has always been a giving child, even to his own detriment.  Money has no real value to him and he would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it.  He has such a tender heart.  It that moment, I was encouraged to help make it happen.  While the father side of me wants to protect him from people taking advantage of his giving heart (now and in the future), I want to also make sure he never loses his heart to help and do things for others.  Isn’t that what Christianity is about?  Showing God’s love, especially those in need?

We find Peter writing to “God’s elect” in the New Testament.  Most likely this writing was purposed to be for those scattered throughout the Asia Minor in the Northern region.  But if you’re a believer, you too are considered part of the “elect.”  1 Peter 5:2-4 states, “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd [Jesus] appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.”  In the same way I desire to protect and look out for my children, I’m also instructed to take care of and protect others that God has put in my path.  While the callous side of me would like to ignore helping those who have chosen to be lazy, I’m still called-as a believer-to shepherd and take care of those around me.  To our flesh, it’s nice to accumulate earthly riches and tangible things.  But it’s pointless to have and not give to others in need, simply because we don’t feel they deserve it or we’ve simply decided to be selfish.

Closing remarks and encouragement:  As a Christian, we are all called to serve and minister to those in need.  What would life be like if we viewed each blessing we received as a chance to help someone else?  The riches of this world will come and go but the love and God is forever.  God has already promised to supply all [your] needs.  What are we waiting for?  It’s time to bless someone else!!!

Have a blessed week, my friends!!!