Helping The Needy

1 John 3:18 Little children, let us stop just saying we love people; let us really love them, and show it by our actions.

After having read much lately regarding Blessed Mother Teresa I felt a sudden flutter within me. The Holy Spirit was working his magic casting his grace upon me. Fortunately I perked up an inner ear and listened. Maybe it was because it was February and love is filing the air, I'm not sure but love certainly played a part.

I came upon an advertisement on Facebook for a group called Philly Women Who Give, my curiosity took me further. I looked at their up coming events and found out that Sunday (Feb. 8Th) they needed volunteers to help make Valentine's and center pieces and other crafts for the children and families of Ronald McDonald's House. I signed right up. I even recruited my friend and fellow mommy, Kelly from New Jersey who drove down to join me. I can't tell you the blessings that were bestowed upon me, I felt so good when we were all finished.

I have often wanted to donate my time and talents (not that I have many lol), to help those in need or less fortunate, but some how it never happens. I seem to always miss the boat. Well, this time by the Lord's grace to be certain, I knew that I could not say no to such a small request of my time and effort. It was not enough anymore to say 'I feel for those people, but I can't help them right now'. No, that was just not going to do anymore.

I know that it is difficult to find the time to give of yourself to others when you do that every day for your family. Sometimes we feel as if there isn't much of us left to give. But through the Lord's grace if we truly desire to help and love those who suffer in this world in some small yet special way, he will provide. Just like he did for me this past weekend.

Giving does begin in the heart of our homes, loving and caring for the well being of our family daily. That is the beginning of loving our neighbor, but we must take that love that overflows in our homes and take it to the world outside of us. That is the only way that God's love can continue to spread from heart to heart.

This organization that I found is wonderful because they host a different charity each month. As a member we are not obligated to participate each month, only when you can. You can give of your time or money. Time certainly is most valuable and needed. For me it is a perfect way to give back to my community, to help the needy, something that the Lord himself calls us to do. It is our duty to answer that call from above. Let us find ways, little ways, but let us do for others, out of pure love.

Remember, a casserole for an elderly neighbor, dropping unused clothing in the collection bins,offering to cook or serve at a soup kitchen your parish may sponsor, offering to take out your neighbors trash, or even just bringing their trash can from the street. All these are acts of love toward each other. All of these help those in need and help to keep us humble. And if our children see this model of humble service they too will continue to live as you have lived.

You don't have to join a group or organization, although that is great too, just start anywhere, because somewhere there is someone in need of your helping hand....it may even be Jesus himself.

Many Blessings From The Pantry,

Sandy