One of the qualities I admire most about my friend and brother in Christ James is his continued commitment to helping those in need. After a distinguished military career, James joined civilian life working in different capacities unrelated to his military career. He doesn’t say much about that other than “It was my duty and honor to serve.”

Today he continues to live out that calling as a volunteer for the American Red Cross. He’s always ready to be deployed whenever disaster strikes. During his time with them, he’s held various roles and responsibilities, all focused on helping those devasted and in need.

Interestingly enough, the American Red Cross was founded by Clara Barton and a circle of her acquaintances after first hearing of the Swiss-inspired global Red Cross network while visiting Europe following the Civil War. Over the years, it has provided worldwide assistance such as first aid, water safety, public health nursing programs, accident prevention, care for the sick, and most notably humanitarian aid.

Today, the American Red Cross relies on millions of volunteers and donors to fulfill its mission to “Prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and donors’ generosity.”

These stories remind me of how Scripture calls us all to defend and provide for those in need. In doing so, we take part in God’s mission to share his goodness and grace here on earth.

Daily Directive:

Answer and Journal the Following

Read:

Read and meditate on Titus 3:1-8. 

Pray:

How are you serving those in need? Be real; be honest.

Meditate / Make It Real:

Pray and ask God for guidance on how to use your talents, gifts or resources to help those in need or that need defending. Create a plan of action.

Share / Show:

Share this with a fellow brother and have them hold you accountable.