Dave Seratt

Simply Hungry” read the sign the man was holding. While visiting in another town my wife and I were heading to get an ice cream treat.

Passing by the man looking unkempt, many thoughts passed through my mind. Like, I wonder if he is here every day, “someone” should help him, etc.

We ended up getting the stranger something to eat and said a prayer for him.

We have all probably had similar experiences. What do we do? What should we do? Of course, we can’t help everyone — our resources are limited. This particular day, we had the time, the finances and opportunity.

I was reminded of a statement I said to someone a few years ago. He came to point out to me that the grass at the church needed mowing. Knowing he was retired and had a mower I said, “Well maybe the one who sees the need and has the time is the one the Lord intended to do it.” Scripture teaches us we should show compassion for those in need. Galatians 6:10 (NIV) reads, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

Many times, our busy schedules keep us from seeing those in need. Other times we look the other way hoping someone else will help.

What would happen in our community and our world if everyone became a “someone”? Someone who looked for opportunity to assist others. Someone who took time each day to give to another’s need.

Keep in mind the needs around us aren’t just physical hunger, there are those starving for spiritual food and still many who crave emotionally for someone to show love. This article is only intended to remind us to look around, keep our eyes open and our hearts open to those around us. Many are simply hungry!

(Dave Seratt is the pastor of Faith Community Church in Powell.)