1 John 3:18
Children, let us love not in word or speech but in deed and truth.
Have you ever been in the position where someone shares a situation with you, and you know you might be able to lend a hand, but instead you offer advice or say, "I'll pray for you?" I have been there more times than I'd like to admit. Dropping what I'm doing to help out can be inconvenient, potentially financially costly and physically demanding among other issues. It might be assisting a stranded motorist, bringing a meal to someone who needs assistance or even taking someone to the doctor. They say 20 percent of the people at church do 80 percent of the work. Most of the time that's probably true.
Today's reading from 1st John challenges us to take action in our faith life. Prayer is not to be sedentary, but to be active. So is our call for giving a hand. Have you volunteered at the homeless shelter, provided a meal or served food? Jesus didn't walk around praying for those who needed help or sit in the temple praying. He went out among the poor, sick and needy. He laid hands on the sick and lame, and took on the burden of the cross for the world. What kind of action will you take today? Prayer is good and necessary, especially if that's all you can do. But consider stretching a bit more to lend a prayerful, helping hand. Make sure you're really doing it!
