Feet that go
My first year serving in BSF leadership is coming to a close this week. This year has been where I’ve learned about using my hands and feet to serve others. 18 women were gifted to me to lead. I use the word gifted because they have been the sweetest gift of encouragement, empathy, love, and support through the year. I not only gained wonderful new friends, but hiking buddies, new connections, spiritual encouragement, and growth as a person.
We learned so much, but one consistent theme throughout Romans was how will you serve. Can you look outside yourself and learn how to be the hands and feet of Jesus? I thought Yes! I can totally help others. Then January came and cancer completely derailed my intentions. Yes, I can be the hands and feet, but not when you’re so exhausted you can’t put one foot in front of the other.
Hands that serve
What I learned is that sometimes you are the hands and feet, and sometimes others are the hands and feet to you. BSF people showed up with meals and prayed over me like crazy, and my sweet in-laws came to take care of the kids. My husband took time off from traveling to stay home, and my sweet Fit4Mom posse brought gift cards, and sent text messages checking in on me. My circles may have transitioned, but the gestures were the same. I was blown away at how well they loved and served me.
What do you do with your hands and feet? Do they serve you or others? Having hands that serve and feet that go is something this world desperately needs. Being Jesus’s hands and feet means more than just praying for people. It means getting dirty and loving others when its hard.
Sometimes it means walking through mourning to get to the other side of joy. It can be as simple as a text or phone call saying you’re thinking of them. When people come to mind, I try to send a text or call to let them know they’re on my mind. There’s a reason they’ve been placed there, and it’s hopefully to lend some encouragement. Support comes in many forms such as emotional support, spiritual comfort or financial help. Each one of us is called to support others differently and at different times.
Serving others shows up when you least expect it. Is there someone whose crossed your path you need to help? Is it your neighbor, a friend who needs a hug, or a family member whose going through a hard time? Whatever it is, be the hands that serve and feet that go. How will you serve someone today?
