Live Outside Ourselves

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
Galatians 6:10 (NIV)

When “we have opportunity, let us do good to all people.” God puts opportunities in our path. Helping others and serving is not voluntary. We are to help and serve ALL people. That includes nonbelievers and believers. Our focus should be “the family of believers” regardless of church or denomination. However our helping and serving should reach outside to nonbelievers as well. Doing so will open ears and hearts to hearing and experiencing the good news.

Betty has serious health problems and is on oxygen. Arriving at therapeutic water exercise class in a wheelchair, she needs help entering the pool. The length of tube running from her oxygen tank allows her to move the width of the pool. 

The first time I met her, she told me she had not walked across the pool. As we talked, for whatever reason, we began walking toward the other side of the pool. Betty's face lit up with a beautiful smile of accomplishment upon reaching the other side.

I asked her if she wanted to walk back. “Only if you go with me, honey,” she said. 

Our laughter caused others to gather around us. Betty's pool friends were aware of her needs. One voice started, then others chimed in, "Go, Betty. Go Betty." Eventually everyone in the pool, with arms raised and chanting, walked with Betty across the pool. When she touched the other side, high fives, clapping, and laughter echoed around the pool area. Betty shed happy tears.

Betty walks across the pool frequently now. She gets tired and progresses slowly. Sometimes she has to stop. When she moves it's always with an attitude of happy commitment. 

The support of pool friends lessens the burden of her poor health. She needs people continuing to cheer her on, give her hope, and encouragement. Her smiles reflect a grateful and peaceful heart.

Look around you…reach out…whose burdens
need to be lightened today?