Make a Difference!

This column represents the thoughts and opinions of Dr. Ron Braley. This is not the opinion of the Elgin Courier.

God didn’t create us just to consume resources, tend only to ourselves and then pass out of this life without making a difference. He made us to be like Him. He loves; we’re to love. He’s merciful; we’re to be merciful. He created us for partnership and to make a difference while we can — not suck air and be selfish. Check out what Paul wrote in Ephesians 2:10, and you’ll see that we’ve been created for good works. Read Matthew 25:31-40; you’ll discover the demise of all who don’t do them. By the way, Luke 10:28 tells us that we will live [spiritually] if we honor God and love people through our works.

Anyway, I thought, “Hey Ron — what examples of making a posit ive dif ference can you think of?” As it turns out, there are plenty! I’ll offer a few to encourage you. What follows is just a sample — plenty of organizations and people in Taylor and around the world make quite a difference. I’m not playing favorites (although I AM partial to Shepherd’s Heart).

A Lucky Starfish

Do you ever feel that nothing you do matters? A boy once walked the beach throwing washed-up starfish back into the water. A man observing him yelled, “There are so many! You’ll never make a difference!” The boy responded while throwing another starfish into the sea: “Well, it matters to that one!” The smallest efforts can have the biggest impact.

The Good Samaritan

Ancient Jews and Samaritans were enemies. Yet, a Jewish Jesus spoke about a charitable Samaritan who found a man beaten, robbed and left for dead (even bypassed by a Jewish priest) and nursed him back to health. I guess we CAN all get along.

“Good News” by Isabella Tebeau

Looking for encouragement and examples of positive differences and influences? Check out Isabella’s Taylor Press article, which has challenged us to, “Always remember there is goodness everywhere and kindness matters.”

Shepherd’s Heart

Our renowned food pantry and thrift shop feeds hundreds of people every week. Money donated by good-hearted folks and earned in the thrift shop continues to provide utility relief for families in danger of being without electricity or water. Shepherd’s Heart certainly reflects God’s heart.

Anchored in Grace Fellowship

Albert and his small crew love the community in big ways. This fantastic church provides hygiene items such as soap and toothpaste to hundreds of people each year. They also often come to the rescue with socks, gloves, food, blankets and school supplies. Look no further for a model of true love.

Summary

The world can seem dark and unloving at times. But there are always bright spots of love and difference-making. The following article will be the first of a two-parter addressing how we can be conf ident of the biblical texts and the people in them including Jesus. Until then, be kind and pure. Questions or comments? Email [email protected].

Blessings and peace, Dr. Ron Braley, MDiv, DMin.