Do For Others

3 Aug

“The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.”  ~ Nelson Henderson

There was a blind man sitting on the side of the road who heard that Jesus was coming his way.  He shouted to Jesus, “Son of David, have pity on me.”  Jesus had the blind man brought to him and asked him, “If I do this for you, what are you going to do for me?”

No.  That is not in the gospels.  You will not find that anywhere in the Bible.  Why?  Because that is absolutely NOT who Jesus was.  Jesus was completely altruistic.  His only concern was for the good of others.  He never held back.  He gave of Himself to the point where He could feel Himself being poured out.  He gave Himself, literally, as His lifeblood was poured out on the cross.  And He did all of it with no strings attached.

Henderson reminds us that we are supposed to be busy about doing for others, not for ourselves.  We plant trees so that others may benefit.  We certainly do not benefit most of the time.  Our intention should never be so that we benefit.  We should be looking for ways to benefit others even if it inconveniences us.  As a matter of fact, we should be looking for ways to give to others even if it means our own demise.  “Greater love has no one that to lay down his life for his friends.”

I have been heartened the past several years by the school systems in the area and their requirement that students perform community service.  It is essential to raise our young people in the habit of giving of time, talent, and treasure.  When they are able to see the need and/or plight of others and come to their aid, they benefit in so many ways.  It helps them to do the work that was entrusted to us by Jesus.

We are one family.  We might look like a huge dysfunctional family; but, we are one family in Christ.  It is incumbent upon us to care for one another, looking out for the best for others, and doing so willingly, lovingly, and cheerfully.

“Plant a tree” today.  Make it count.  Let what you do for someone benefit them in ways that will touch their lives and let them know that they are recognized and loved by others.

FAITH ACTION:  Make sure that you do something for someone else today without any expectation of a return.