Life's Routines Are Holy Endeavors

       The Northwest is home for nearly 11 million of people in myriad circumstances. Yet, we often find ourselves challenged in efforts to connect the gospel of Jesus with them effectively. Often, it’s because the conversations we concern ourselves with in church life whiz right past where people are hurting and hoping. God is not abstract, but we often talk about him that way.

       The concerns of those of us blessed to live here can seem trivial compared to what citizens in many countries endure daily, but the challenges of life mar many of the people right next door.
       Just ask any pastor who regularly sits across from people trying to give spiritual guidance about the messes in their lives. Ask the volunteer youth leader helping a family cope with the tragedy of its teen’s rebellion. Talk to the friends at wits end trying to care for an elderly parent who no longer recognizes them. Lend an ear to the wife whose husband has shown little devotion for the past 13 years.
       The stories of burdened lives can seem endless. You don’t have to look hard to see it on people’s faces, downcast too often, brows furrowed and eyes askance. Many are tired, anxious and scared. Following Jesus in no way ensures problems or their consequences go away, but he invites us all to a “burden” that is easy and a “yoke” that is light.
       That shouldn’t suggest ministry to others is easy or convenient. Talk to anyone involved in helping others trough crisis and they’ll relieve you of that illusion quickly. But the Bible gives us some aid.
       The pages of the Old Testament reveal not only God’s compassion for people — even if it comes across harshly at times in some of the stories — but also the lengths those who love him will go to bear his heart for them.
       In just about every instance, God accomplishes his work through people. So, the way we treat one another in life is important. Seeing people with the eyes and heart of God, and taking the time to express his love for them, has the potential for transforming communities in at least some small ways.
       In the routines of life, we can consider the opportunities for sincere and compassionate interactions as holy endeavors. Those encounters may be as simple as speaking words sincerely, offering to pray for them or treating people with the dignity they deserve because God created them and has loved them age upon age.
       We should never shrink from making larger global impact when those mission opportunities arise, but we must beware the temptation of visions for making grand impacts luring us away from the simple needs right in front of us.
       The Old Testament prophets remind us and Jesus commands us: “Let your light shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly father.”