Have you ever had one of those weeks? Last week was a huge roller coaster week for me. The highs came from being in just the right place at just the right time and being given just the right words to be a blessing. The lows included a health issue and being with people who were suffering deeply and whose pain I wish I could lift. I can’t write about all that happened last week, but I will share a little glimpse with you.

            The first came when my assistant principal asked if I would do her a favor. I had other things to do, but she needed the favor done. I will admit that there was a little grumbling on my part, but I thought that I would be able to see a friend if I did the favor.

            While I was taking care of the favor, my friend began to have a medical problem. A co-worker and I realized she needed help. We called her family and while we waited I asked if she believed in the power of prayer. She said, “Yes.” So right there, we joined hands and sought the Lord’s help. He answered! The symptoms subsided. When the family member arrived, we all agreed that she should be checked out. I am happy to report that she is well and was back to work the next day. I know I was sent on assignment from my Heavenly Father.

            Another interesting event happened late in the week. I was struggling with some negative reactions to a prescription. All I wanted to do was go home and rest. There was one problem; I had a chance to see my niece and her boyfriend, who were visiting from Montana. I felt compelled to meet him and to pray with them. I wasn’t sure how wise it was to go away from home, but I went.

            When I arrived, my symptoms lifted as I met my niece and the young man. We had a great conversation, which included some sharing of our lives and some good-natured teasing. This uncle wanted to be sure I got some good laughs out of them. As I prepared to leave, I asked if I could pray with them. The spirit fell in a beautiful way as I blessed and prayed for them. I knew I was exactly where I was supposed to be.

            There are people in my life who are facing grief and heartache and I find myself asking God, “What can I do to help?” Some pain and suffering is so profound that words and hugs just don’t feel like enough. I pray and cry out to God for them. Some of the pain will continue until these precious people arrive in the arms of Jesus who will personally wipe away their tears.

Others I know are being called to persevere, to trust God in what seems like an impossible situation. Their situations seem out of control, but these people have to know and believe that they serve a great big God who has everything in His hands.

            This is when we are called to be brothers and sisters to those who are suffering. We can hold them up physically and by our prayers as they seek to take the next step in their lives. They need friends like you and me who can encourage them. They need someone who can impart hope and speak blessings into their lives. They need someone like us to remind them of God’s great love when all they see is the darkness.

            I believe that God places us right where He needs us. When people are going through dark times, we are the light and hope they need. God needs us to be willing and then He will enable us to help lift their burden. Prayers, cards, and meals may feel so inadequate, but for those struggling can be the lifeline to hold onto in the darkness. Your phone call, email, or hug might be the ray of sunshine that helps them make it through that day. There are so many opportunities that we have to help one another, let’s remember to be His hands and feet.

I want to encourage you to ask God to put you right where He needs you. When tragedy strikes someone you know, go and be with them. Your smile and simple gestures will be remembered long after you are gone. Your kind words, hugs, and prayers will help to lift burdens you cannot imagine. God needs each one of us to do our part as His representatives here on earth.

Contact Doug at doug@dougcreamer.com