Service

For your consideration…

We have had many messages about service, helping others. I suspect that there are many reasons why we are receiving it again today.

It is hard to escape the news. Everywhere we turn we see the war and destruction of Ukraine. It is natural to feel sad and helpless and wonder what we can do. Those who are able find ways to volunteer. The rest of us can hold space open for HOPE and send prayers filled with blessings and love. In no way should we minimize the impact of them.

We are also reminded today that being of service to others is a two-way street. To have the maximin impact both the giver and receiver are doing so with a free and open heart.

I often think about the required service hours many high schools require for graduation. Do people benefit? Sure the students get what they need to graduate and the organizations/people they donate their time and talent to do as well. Still, HOPEfully, students are also doing so with kindness and love from their spirit. HOPEfully, the receivers are receiving the same way. A lot is lost when receivers receive with the attitude of entitlement. The sense of entitlement is the reason a lot of charity programs are not successful. Offering HOPE, encouragement, believing in people, teaching, etc. like the Habitat for Humanity program makes a richer experience for both givers and receivers.

On the flip side, we are asked to consider receiving. Many of us, me included, sometimes struggle with accepting help. If we can do it ourselves, we feel we should not impose on others. What we fail to see is that we are robbing others of the opportunity to be givers and the experience it brings.

We all need to be givers and receivers. It is no the monetary value that is important. It is the love and kindness energy…spirit…that can truly change lives and the world.

That is the HOPE. And so it is.

Bit by bit, piece by piece, HOPE by HOPE action steps anyone can take…

-Affirm…“I am loved.”

-I can be both a giver and receiver.

-Meditate/pray…ask…”What is my next step for my highest good and the highest good of all?”

-Drink lots of water.

-Get outdoors and take in at least 10 deep breaths.

What made me smile yesterday…

-I slept in late and got up recharged.

-Four loads of laundry, showering Bruce, changing beds, writing, crafting were just part of my day.

-Catching up with Mary, Jackie, and Cathy.

-A good long walk with Louie on a beautiful day stopping to talk to lots of neighbors.

-A good book.

Love, Blessings, and Gratitude,

Rev. Chris