The Least of These

In my day job, I get the opportunity to work with some younger people, as well as families with children. On one hand, it can serve as a reminder that I am single with no kids of my own. But on the other hand, it allows me to invest in the future generation despite my familial situation.

A friend of mine let me know that May is, apparently, a month dedicated to foster care awareness. I'm very thankful to be part of a church that is dedicated to serving our families and local communities in this area. It's such a practical way to carry out Jesus' words about the least of these (Matthew 25:40), as well as James exhortation about true religion:

"Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world." James 1:27

As I thought about it, it struck me that regardless of the stage of your life, you too can help out widows, orphans, and the next generation, in various ways.

Using my own example, I know I can't adopt, sure. But I can help out in my local church body with youth programs, mentor younger adults, and indirectly in our church's foster program. Mostly, I can pray for these various groups.

If you're an older empty nester, maybe adoption isn't in the plans. But you can also mentor younger generations. You can pray for, support, and encourage. There are really so many ways to help.

And of course, if you're a family, you can consider adoption. Isn't that such a picture of the gospel, that we are adopted into God's family?

And regarding widows, let's not forget them. Much of what I mentioned can be implemented regarding widows, widowers, and the elderly.

Take an older person out to lunch, encourage them, pray for them, listen to them, and be a friend. If you're led in this direction, consider helping out (or starting) a program that ministers to the elderly.

For those who have lost a spouse but are younger, be a friend to them as well.

I think the bottom line is: carry out Christ's command to love one another. We're not called to do everything ourselves, but we are all called to love:

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another." John 13:34

I can't say I carry these suggestions out the way I should, but I hope you'll find this an encouragement to you that, no matter your station in life, you are called to love the least of these. If you're feeling led to something like this, speak with your local pastor and prayerfully consider an area of ministry, whether in church, work, or your local community where you can carry this out. I have a feeling you won't regret it.

Image Credit: Unsplash