Two women traveled many miles, leaving behind family, friends, and the comfort of home. Though strangers in a faraway land, they came to lift up those who were struggling with life—to offer encouragement and give them hope.

When they arrived, they found God had brought others to join their mission. Together they shared His compassion and His peace. And through them, God touched the lives of those desperate to know they were not alone…for He was with them.

Over the next few days, the two women learned of a family unable to find a fulltime caregiver for their ill mother. So, ignoring their plans to return home, they decided to stay a while longer and serve as fulltime caregivers.

How can we show that we follow Jesus?

They were asked why they would do such a thing, especially after all they had already done. One answered simply, “There was a need no one was filling.” They had the time, ability and means. So, why not? And that got me thinking.

John wrote: We saw real love when Jesus gave up His life for us. So, we also should give up our lives for our brothers and sisters. For if we are able to help someone in need but show no compassion, how can God’s love be in us? ¹

Jesus once said, I am giving you a new command. Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By doing so, everyone will know that you follow me. ²

Do not merely say we love one another.

Think how important this is! Someone in need is loved, with the same love Jesus has shown for each of us. And when others see us loving someone with this special love…they will find Jesus alive in us and know we follow Him.

But what if we choose not to help someone in need? That person does not receive Jesus’ love flowing through us. Others do not witness the power of Jesus living in us. And all are left to wonder…How can God’s love be in them?

In this day and age of “Think only of yourself!”—Let us not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions. ³

 

Ciloa Forever!

Chuck

 

 

 

Chuck Graham is Founder and Executive Director of Ciloa, an international ministry devoted to encouraging others and teaching them how to encourage one another. He is also an author and speaker. Chuck and his wife, Beverly, live in Lawrenceville, Georgia, USA. Learn more about Chuck and Ciloa at www.Ciloa.org.

 

 

Footnotes: Note: The title comes from the 2005 animated movie Robots: “Start looking around for a need and start looking for ideas to fill that need. One idea will lead to another and before you know it, you’ve done it. See a need. Fill a need.” (1) This is my paraphrase of 1 John 3:16-17. (2) Read John 13:34-35. (3) Read 1 John 3:18.

Pictures: Banner: Volunteering, from the article “Sharing is Caring” by Sarah Williams, April 7, 2019, swhelper.org. (1) 1 John 3:18, by Open Life Church, openlifechurch.com.