Speak to Inspire By Simon Hart
If you had one opportunity to make a lasting impact on someone, what would you do? The Bible shares with us that we need to love our neighbors. This is a concept Christians should live by, especially in this world we abide in. As we see the effects of Coronavirus on our society, I am able to understand more why God calls us to be in community and to love one another. The question I ask is: “At this time, how should we show love to each other?” We all know this pandemic we are experiencing right now is going to go down in history books. People are going to be talking about this season for a while. It also means our society is in a vulnerable state which creates an opportunity. An opportunity that allows us to make a positive impact in the world by seeking after conversation and community to demonstrate love. This display of love may look different to everyone. Tangible gifts are an amazing way to cheer someone up and show love. However, at times, they are given with very minimal care or effort. On the other hand, conversations make others feel more cherished because of the intention and one hundred percent focus given to them. We know all actions motivated by faith in Christ are going to please God. However, when we spend time having conversations with people, it helps us achieve our goal of building God’s kingdom more effectively. This is a concept we observe even as we follow the example of Christ. There are only a few times Jesus gives a physical gift, although He often chooses to spend time interacting and getting to know others. One example that comes to mind is the story of the woman at the well (John 4: 1-42). Jesus could have helped her get water and continued on His journey. Instead, not only did He sit and wait for her, but He also chose to take the time to give her all of His attention and speak with her. He looked into her life and began to understand who she was. When the woman left this interaction, she was changed and hopeful. As Christians, this should be something we are seeking after daily. To look out for people who are lost and share with them God’s wisdom and friendship. When we collectively do this, especially in our desperate society, there will be an activation of hope in our communities. We will start to see people having positive attitudes and sharing the love they received with others. In doing this, we will change the way humanity remembers this period of time. There are many people who are struggling with not having community right now. With isolation and the lack of communication, depression is setting in. They need someone to show them the exact love and friendship that we should be practicing. So, if you are considering dropping off a present to cheer someone up, maybe take some time and give them your focus in conversation as well. You can also seek out a neighbor and encourage them. Give hope to just one person that you see. In all you do, build the kingdom of God with every opportunity He gives you. 6FAITH | MON AG A ZEVERY INE NAM E CORNER
