On My Doorstep
View the Sept-Oct, 2012 Issue
We are to use our different gifts in accordance with the grace that God has given us. . . . Whoever shares with others should do it generously.
After I had two children in two years, I couldn’t be counted on to even show up at church—mostly because often one or both of my two young children would have the sniffles. Ironically, before this time, I was on the church staff in children’s ministry, where daily I could use my gift of teaching. I mourned the loss of my ministry.
- Romans 12:6, 8 (TEV)
Then one morning, a friend who is also a stay-at-home mom called me — in tears, overwhelmed, and lonely. I told her I’d be right over and bring my kids to play with hers. We talked all morning about our similar struggles, and she seemed to grow stronger.
Later I thought of another childhood friend. She is a mother of six, on public assistance, with no car and utterly alone with no support from her family. Though I continually feel inadequate in the face of her needs, I’m beginning to see various ways I can help. I am learning through my relationships with these women that being a friend can be a powerful, challenging ministry.
