So we were sitting around talking about how we don't need to wait until somebody gives us a big, important job to do.  We can each find something to do that others may never know about.  It's important to do our small part.  And then he shared his own story.  

Some time ago he realized there were many people at his church whom he didn't really know.  I mean, they saw each other every Sunday.  And he knew their names.  But he didn't know much more than that about them.  So he decided to do something about it.  He talked it over with his wife, and she gave her approval to his idea.  Next he talked with another man at church.  Invited him to join in the adventure.  And then he approached the first person.  Decided to reach out to a lady who comes to church all alone.  Just greeted her after the service and said that he and his friend would like to visit her next Sunday afternoon.  Would that be OK?  She was surprised but agreed to let them come home with her.  They didn't spend a real long time at her house.  It was just a time of reaching out to her.  Getting to know her in the context of where she lived.  By the time he returned home to his loving wife and children, he was deeply touched.  Told his wife that he had no idea how bad the lady had it.  Shared her story.  The man she lives with (who isn't really her husband) beats her.  The poverty he saw in their home was extreme.   And then they set about finding a way to do what they could to help her.  

It's been a couple of years now since that first visit.  Every Sunday he sends his wife and kids on home ahead of him, while he and his friend visit yet another individual or family in the church.  This simple act has changed so much for everyone.  They ones they visit feel noticed and loved.  The church body is learning about needs they never knew existed.  And they are finding small ways that they can help meet those needs.  Or at least pray for the situation.  

What about you?  What are you doing in your corner of this old world?  Who are you  reaching out to?  We can all do our small part.  We don't have to wait to be asked.  Needy people are all around us.  And we receive so much more than we ever give.  It's well worth the effort.