“This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God." ~2 Corinthians 9:12-13

“This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else.” ~2 Corinthians 9:12-13

Fred Rogers said, “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”

I find myself taking her wise advice and thanking God for the helpers - like during the flood in Western North Carolina last September. Also thinking back to the Hurricane Katrina and 9/11. Their service reflects the work of Jesus, whether they realize it or not. The first responders who put themselves in harms way to help fellow mankind exemplifies the verse in John 15, “Greater love has no one than this, that one should lay down his life for his friends.” And how much more when they are strangers!

Thankfully (oh, what an understatement!). Rather, filled to overflowing with gratitude - that NO ONE is a stranger to God. He created each one in His own image - each and all are precious to Him. He has counted the hairs on our head, His signature is inscribed in our DNA. It’s mind-blowing! How can we ever contemplate that He would reject us? We can push back all we want but He actually rejects our rejection of Him!

“If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself.” ~2 Timothy 2:13