A Golden Opportunity

What golden opportunities are available to us during these hard and dark days of a global pandemic?   How do we even escape the feeling of isolation?  This feeling is not only limited to the physical but also can lead to mental and emotional pain.  How do we get out of the headspace of negativity, perhaps our feelings of absolute exhaustion and disconnect?  How do we turn our hearts towards thoughts of others, especially those who are less fortunate?  How do we remain open, loving, and hospitable?

Wow, that seems to be a lot of questions!  Where do we turn for the answers?  As always, the best place to uncover the treasures of wisdom is in God’s Word.  These days are difficult, especially for the elderly and the shut-ins, widows, and orphans, the sick and the suffering.  How can we be the hands and feet of Jesus?  Listen to the words of our Lord, “A new command I give you:  Love one another.  As I have loved you, so you must love one another.  By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34, 35).  

Maybe, we can turn our thoughts and prayers towards those who don’t have family or a safe place to live or adequate food in their pantry.  Perhaps we can do more than just think and pray, and put our faith into action by giving.  Giving what?  A card, a phone call, an e-mail of encouragement, a meal, a visit … however God leads.  “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). 

There are so many lonely, hurting, grieving and wounded people that are just longing for a touch, a smile, a word of kindness.  It only takes a moment to make someone feel loved.  Such a golden moment in time can make an eternal difference in someone’s life while at the same time blessing the giver.  “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5: 1, 2). 

Golden opportunities can slip by so quickly and often in hindsight we can kick ourselves for not taking the time.  If we are talking golden, then let’s refer to the rule as Christ taught it in His amazing and well-loved teaching, “Do to others as you would have them do to you” (Luke 6:31). 

“Lord Jesus, help me to be still and know You.  Help me to be real and show You.”

About the Author

Susan is a simple gal who enjoys simple pleasures.  Her hobbies include biking, hiking, writing, reading and photography. She loves to encourage others.  Her passion is to be used by God as He directs.

She joined the staff of the Associated Gospel Churches in March 2004 in the role of Church Relations Coordinator. Susan has two delightful daughters, one wonderful son-in-law and a handful of soul sisters. 

She considers herself blessed!  “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23 

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