It's our Job

Matthew 25:45 says "He will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'" That is a powerful message. As a whole society tends to walk around with blinders on pretending that someone struggling isn't our problem, but it is. We are called to serve those less fortunate. And like I said last week, we don't have to reinvent the wheel. There are plenty of organizations already in place. We may have some parenting instincts, but we are not all born ready to be perfect parents knowing all there is to know. We have to do life in community, there is great knowledge to be learned from those older and more experienced than us. But our society is quick to judge. Fear of judgement is what keeps most people from reaching out for help. And what happens when a person is surrounded by chaos? They have no positive role models in their lives. How do we break those generational curses. The military's New Parent Support Program is a perfect example. People come along side new parents (anyone with kids under age 5) and help them learn about developmental expectations, discipline, love and attachment, provide them with resources and so much more. This program is a preventative method to keep families from becoming at risk. We have to address things at individual level, relationship/family level as well as the community level. The civilian side of things has what is called Early Intervention. Parents as Teachers is part of that as well. There are play groups where parents can gather in community while kids play and learn. These programs aren't always available in all areas though, and many of them are overwhelmed. What if we as neighbors came along side people living among us who are struggling and figure out ways we can support them instead of judging them? Could we actually slow down and give some time to someone else, in an attempt to make the world a better place? It's great to be successful, making lots of money, and having lots of nice things, but how do you look at someone else who isn't on the same level as you? Even donating money is great, but everyone would get so much more out of a situation by giving there time and talent versus always giving their treasure. Just something to think about.