I GREW UP HEARING THE PHRASE, “Many hands make light work.” This past week I saw the truth of that statement played out once more. Those many hands came in the form of 32 individuals (ranging in age from seven-years-old, to those over eighty-six-years-old), who joined hands in packing 125 World Vision Caregiver Kits. In less than 45 minutes we loaded the orange boxes with gloves, soap, cream, flashlights, medication and other items that will help the care-givers provide tangible expressions of mercy to those suffering the ravages of AIDS. Most importantly each box also contained a card of encouragement from a Vacation Bible School attendee and was prayed over by the one packing the box. It was a great evening of many hands making light work, and of many hands doing the work of prayer. Blessed are the hands.
This past Tuesday evening, at our AWANA kick-off, I once again saw an answer to prayer as many came not only to lend a hand, but also their hearts and voices as we began to once more reach out into our community with the love of Jesus Christ and the message of the His Good News. Honestly, we were very concerned that we would not have the staff needed to care for the children that would arrive, but God graciously and abundantly answered our prayer. What a joy it was to watch and listen to our leaders share the Word of God with the kids and to help those kids begin to hide God’s Word in their hearts. Blessed are the hands.
I was reminded that God has given us hands for a reason. First, to fold in prayer as we seek His face and grace. Second, to be lifted before Him in thanksgiving and praise. And third, to stretch out in service as we seek to offer God’s mercy and compassion to those we encounter.
Blessed are the hands.