“For I was hungry and you fed me; I was thirsty, and you gave me water; I was a stranger, and you invited me into your homes; naked and you clothed me; sick and in prison, and you visited me.’
“Then these righteous ones will reply, ‘Sir, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you anything to drink? Or a stranger, and help you? Or naked, and clothe you? When did we ever see you sick or in prison, and visit you?’
“And I, the King, will tell them, ‘When you did it to these my brothers, you were doing it to me!’
Matthew 25:34-40 TLB
Dolly Parton is gone!! Headlines screamed the news. Her legacy continues with her businesses, Imagination Library for children, Dollywood, and thousands of songs. Tributes pour in from all over the world.
As I approach a milestone birthday like Dolly’s, I wonder how many more birthdays I will celebrate. As I ponder reality, I am not depressed about it, but I want to live and not just exist as long as I can..
Dolly was a great example. She kept going until the end.
As long as I am physically able, I want to serve others at church, in my neighborhood, and in the community. After years of careful spending and eating hot dogs and casseroles, God has blessed me financially in my retirement. I can donate to those who need it more than I do.
No longer do I travel to far places on mission trips. However, I can support those who do go by praying, giving supplies, and contributing to their costs.
Each day brings opportunities to care for others. I pray for ways to make someone’s day better. Bring a smile with flowers. Drop devotionals off at doorsteps. Call someone who is lonely.
Widows especially tug at my heart because of my own grief. After the funeral, many feel forgotten. Even though the grief lessens over time, it reappears at unexpected moments.
As long as we are still here, we can be living for Jesus and showing Him to the world.
My life has changed with the passing of time. My body doesn’t work as it used to, so I have to adjust but not quit. We can follow Jesus’ command to love God and others.
Loving others well is not always easy or convenient. Jesus didn’t let that stop Him from talking to those others ignored. He healed the sick, taught the multitudes, and listened to those who were rejected.
We can do the same as we give our time, talents, and resources. We may not be rich in money, but we all have time and gifts. Even if we are not able to get out, we can reach others from our homes by phone, email, or actual snail mail.
Loving Father, thank you for the years we have here on earth. Show us how to make the most of each day even when we don’t feel like it. Help us appreciate the numerous blessings we have and provide ways to bless others.
Amen
