It was a time of war in England. All the young men were away fighting, and the young women were called to help in hospitals and soup kitchens. This one couple were both summoned to duty, but had two small children, one an infant. There was no family member available to care for them nearby. They struggled and prayed, “God who can we entrust with our precious babies?” One person came to mind… the wife of the local pastor. She was always tender hearted and so careful to be kind with her words. She already had two children of her own… would she even agree to this?
The young mom approached her doorstep, one child in her arms another holding her hand. “Will she be able to love them tenderly, even if they cry?” Tears were welling up and the door hadn’t even opened yet… “Good morning,” she softly started, and continued to share her predicament. Gentle eyes listened intently then responded that she would be honored to care for her babies. She knew the excruciating pain of entrusting her little ones into another’s care was almost more than she could handle. She received them with all the love she showed her own children.
Do we realize this is exactly what the Lord has done with us? He has entrusted us with the care of His children. His commands are clear - “Feed My sheep,” Love one another as I have loved you,” “Let your speech always be gracious seasoned with salt,” Speak truth in love,” and “Edify one another in the things of God.”
When we do this right, we are the family of God, caring for each other as we journey Home together. For many, the church family IS their family, and we must love each other as family. Soon, this life and all its opportunities will be over, and we will stand and give account of how well we loved each other.
I pray we are found worthy of this great responsibility.
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