A little while back I was sitting in front of the church I attend having a conversation with a friend and someone in authority walked by and said, “Hey Jack, how are you doing?” My response was, “Not really good.” The person said, “Have a good day.” The friend I was originally speaking with asked me, “Does he know your name is Douglas and not Jack?” My response was, “I would think so, I have been at the church for years.” But what bothered me most was not his ignorance about my name but his lack of concern for what I was going through. How often have you seen someone and knew that they needed a word of encouragement and just walked on by? It has happened to me far too often, but I have also been guilty of doing this very thing more times than I care to admit. There are people that come in and out of our lives on a daily basis that need to be strengthened, get an encouraging word, a prayer, something to help them remain firm in their faith or help them to develop it. Sometimes the greatest ministry we can offer is simply being present and willing to listen. A kind word spoken at the right moment can change the direction of someone’s entire day. We may never fully know the battles people are fighting behind their smiles. Many individuals carry burdens that remain hidden from everyone around them. God often places people in our path not by accident, but by divine appointment. The question is whether we are willing to slow down long enough to to be aware that they even exist. The mission of Christ has always been an invitation for ordinary people to participate in God’s extraordinary work of redemption. No special title, position, or recognition is required to show the love of Jesus to someone who is hurting. Every believer has been called to be a light, and every person we encounter is a potential recipient of God’s grace and mercy. When we intentionally welcome others into our lives and into the family of God, we become partners in a mission that has eternal significance. I pray quite often about what is written in *Acts 14:21 They preached the good news to that city and made many disciples, then they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, 22 strengthening and establishing the hearts of the disciples; encouraging them to remain firm in the faith, saying, “It is through many tribulations and hardships that we must enter the kingdom of God.”* I think about the words in that verse, “It is through many tribulations and hardships that we must enter the kingdom of God” and contemplate, is it really worth it? Who really takes joy in knowing and experiencing tribulations and hardships? Death of a loved one, sickness (cancer), divorce, adultery, alcoholism, drug addiction, loneliness, job loss, are just a few of the hardships people all around us are dealing with every day. I am encouraged by the words of Charles Spurgeon, “Growth can be painful, change can be painful but nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don’t belong. Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow it only empties today of its strengths.” To simply take a few moments out of your day to talk to someone may be just what they need to give them hope to survive and realize that Jesus really does love them and you love them too. As I have witnessed the pain and misery in the eyes of many different individuals over the years, one question keeps coming to mind, “What is a soul worth?” The answer is simple, “Whatever it takes to save it.” There are two things that most people hold onto tightly, time and money, and we all need to decide what is most important to be investing in with what God has given us, our earthly kingdom or His heavenly one? The gospel was never meant to be reserved for a select few, but offered freely to all who are willing to receive it. Every person we encounter, regardless of their background, failures, or circumstances, has immeasurable value in the eyes of God. May we have the passion to see people as Christ sees them, reaching out with compassion, grace, and genuine love whenever He gives us the opportunity. Brethren, may we preach the good news in love with boldness and see who’s life will be changed for eternity. During this season of uncertainty, may we be prepared to share the love of our Savior to our world and may others be able to see Jesus’ reflection in all of God’s children by the power of the Holy Spirit, Amen.  

My BeLoved, may the grace and peace of the Lord Jesus, the love of God the Father, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen. In Christ Love, douglas. HE>i. pastord.blog

Special Note: I want to thank those who read what I write and are encouraged to support the ministry God has entrusted to me either one time or have decided to give on a monthly basis. I am encouraged to see certain verses playing out before my eyes like what is written in *Philippians 4:16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account.*

To any who are interested, please feel free to reach out to me with prayer requests, questions, encouragement, or for information on how to come alongside me with financial support at pastord.blog@gmail.com or I do have a Zelle account associated with my phone number, 5202720387 last name Blaser. Thank you my Beloved for your ongoing prayers and support.