Been There, Done That, Let Me Help

The other day we were going somewhere new.  The address did not sound familiar and the GPS often is unreliable.  “Turn left” it tells me when there is no stree! My parents had been to our destination and offered for us to ride with them or follow behind.  It was so much easier going with someone who had already been there.

Having made the trip before us, my parents knew what to look for and what might go wrong.  They also knew where to turn to make the journey easier.  Traveling together allowed quality time to chat and catch up.  The drive which I was dreading turned out to be lovely and extremely enjoyable.

The journey of life is exactly like that.  People who have travelled the same path can help us.  By giving us direction, tips from their journey or just going with us, others can chase anxiety away.  They can take our hand and walk beside us to let us know we have a traveling companion, a seasoned on.  Not only are they assisting us, but they are serving God.  Scripture says in Hebrews 6:10 “God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them.”

Do you ever look to someone for counsel?  Someone who has gone through a tough situation and made it through with flying colors?  We need people to encourage us.  My sweet grandson Isaac is special needs and my daughter Vanessa is always offering support to other parents of special needs children.  Isaac is now seven so it is routine now, but she will never forget the trying first months.

Sometimes I forget that I am serving God by helping others.  Do you?  We need to make it such second nature that we just do helpful things.  Chatting with someone on the phone recently we were able to offer encouragement to each other.  Taking a meal to a new set of parents brought tears to their eyes.  Offering to pray with someone immediately stunned them speechless, but they were very appreciative.

We have all “been there, done that” so let’s take those experiences to serve Abba and someone here in need. It makes a great Lenten project for however often you decide.  Even if it isn’t for Lent, don’t ever give up doing good for others.