Seasonal Embers

“The righteous cry and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them from all their troubles.” (Psalm 34:17)

Whether you sit in front of a fireplace with a blazing fire on a cold winter’s day or roast marshmallows at a campfire on a hot summer day, watching the burning wood stirs thoughts or maybe encourages a song or two. Holidays can have the same effect as a dancing fire, stirring up memories of time shared with family and friends over the years and anticipation of new ones on the horizon. But these times of the year and other special occasions are not joyous for all people. For some, they stoke up seasonal embers of time with loved ones who are no longer here, financial insecurity, declining health, an unstable home life. These seasons of the year can be lonely and challenging for them, and they cry out to God.

Count your blessings if you have not experienced such loss. Ask God to heighten your awareness of and be more supportive of people who have. Prayer, an encouraging word, a visit, a meal, any small act of kindness goes a long way for those hurting emotionally or struggling physically. During Christmastime or any day of the year, if God burdens your heart for someone, minister to them in the name of Jesus. By extending His love, you bless them, the Lord, and He blesses you. Bear in mind, the person in need one day could be you.