Volunteer

Good Afternoon,

1 Timothy 6:7-8 (NIV)
For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.

I have just returned from our monthly volunteering at Angel Food Ministries (http://www.angelfoodministries.com/). I knew that I got up late today and didn't have time to sit down this morning and peruse Scripture to see what God might have me send along, so I also knew that I would have to do it when we got home...that's now. I also know why God had me dawdle a bit this morning and not have the time I felt necessary to send out the daily message.

This verse from 1 Timothy is very revealing and puts God's word into my mind with a reality that I would not have felt had I not been where I was today. Yeah, that sentence is a bit convoluted, but, well, it speaks my heart and mind.

You see, there's nothing more humbling than to be placed somewhere which puts you into direct dealings with those who are hungry and in need. That's where I was today. Those who read these words should fully understand Paul's words to Timothy. We are blessed to have food and clothing. There are those who are not.

Today I witnessed people who had very little. I saw people who obviously were not as well off as every single person who can read this message is. I witnessed people who were hungry. I met people who didn't have good clothes. I spent time with people who were truly in need. And, I was blessed to have been able to do just a little bit in perhaps easing some of their need. Not in a monetary way, but by being able to do something and to be there.

My friends, I am humbled this day. I have been shown, although I should have seen many times before now, just how blessed I am. God...today, for whatever reason...brought close to my heart and mind just how much He has give me and allowed me to help Him in a very small way. I can't even really express what God brought clearly to me today. But I know that I'm very, very pleased that He did.

Here's my point: When you have the opportunity to help out in feeding, clothing, housing, or otherwise helping those in need, do it. If you don't take your valuable time to physically go and help in some way, then you are missing one of the hugest blessings that God allows you to have. If all you do is to help with your checkbook, you are really missing the point. (Now, that doesn't mean that if you are financially able that you shouldn't write large checks! Because, YOU SHOULD!) But, the feelings and emotions and true blessings that you are being offered cannot come through giving only your money. No, the truest blessings come from the doing...even in small ways.

If for any reason you doubt what I'm saying today is true, then I challenge you to dirty your hands a bit and get out of your comfort zone and help. When you do, you will know the truth of being obedient to what Jesus has asked us to do and truly help His children.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David