Be Someone’s Miracle

- Pastor Joni Oquist

“‘Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?’ Then the King will say, ‘I’m telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me” – Matthew 25:37-40 (MSG)

Some of the earliest observations of the adults in my life are of them helping others. My parents modeled service and raised me in a community of people who did the same. At an early age, I was taught to reach out to girls sitting alone and befriend them somehow. You never know how seemingly small things can make a difference in another’s life.

Years later, as the young wife of a youth Pastor, an invitation was extended to me by a woman wanting to help a teenage girl shopping for some new clothes. I worked at a mall and loved to shop, so usually, I would’ve jumped at this opportunity. This situation, however, was unique to me. This precious young teenager was mentally disabled and had an unusual body shape. It made shopping for her more difficult.

As followers of Christ, we are taught to love one another and esteem others above ourselves. Jesus modeled this time and time again. Record-breaking crowds followed Jesus, but His interactions with unlikely individuals are often the stories that impact us the most. Jesus loved everyone but gave special attention to the local outcasts. Through Jesus, the love of the Father was freely given to persons others deemed despicable and undeserving of love or attention.

The young woman accepted our invitation to take her shopping, and off we went. I can recall seeing the joy on her face every time she emerged from the dressing room. I remember her gratitude and excitement as she proudly wore the outfits to church in the following weeks.

As I consider Jesus’ words, ‘you did it to me’ in light of my shopping experience, here is what I know now that I didn’t at the time.

·When done for Christ, even small acts of kindness have lasting effects.

·Witnessing her joy gave me a glimpse of God’s joy.

·Being a part of someone’s miracle makes the ordinary extraordinary.

Make a Difference:

Take a moment to consider the times you’ve felt invisible and overlooked (maybe even now). Now, ask God to turn your focus outward and consciously look for anyone in your path today who may also feel that way. Would it change your perspective if you knew God would use you as the miracle they’ve been praying for? Don’t make it more complicated than it needs to be. Remember, it’s not just for that person; you’re doing it for Jesus.

As You Read:

Jesus wanted us to connect with others in His name. By doing it for them, it is like we are doing it for Him. What miracle is waiting as we help those marginalized or forgotten by society?