We often feel frozen by the staggering need surrounding us. We want to get involved and make a difference, but have no idea where to start or what possible difference could be made.
Here is one small thing you can do to change the world around you: ask yourself, “How can I make life better today?” for each person you come across as you live each day.
This doesn’t have to be complicated. Jesus said this in Matthew 25:35-40:
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
Giving a hamburger, a glass of water, or some clothes – these are all simple things we can do.
Still unsure? Here are some other things that will put a smile on someone’s face and show them that you, as a representative of Jesus, care about them:
Genuinely smile at someone.
Say thank you to a person serving you, even if it is their job to do so.
Ask someone how their day is going and be truly interested in their answer.
Tip at least 20%.
Listen to another’s story rather than telling your own.
James, Jesus’ brother, said that true religion was caring for widows and orphans. Who are the “widows and orphans” in your life? How can you brighten their day today? How can you demonstrate the love that Jesus has for them? Let your actions be the gospel.