While I didn’t have any groundbreaking earth shattering revelations this month, it was a good exercise in focusing on the Holy Spirit.

I don’t post on Facebook much anymore, but I do log on once in awhile to see what everyone is doing. I saw a close friend of mine, who recently had her first baby, posted she and her husband were sick with the flu and asked for prayers that the new baby wouldn’t get sick (baby –> flu –> very bad). Numerous people responded with “Praying!” and “Sending prayers!” Me, on the other hand, felt called to do more than just pray. I messaged her asking if she needed anything.  She said they could use soup, crackers, pedialyte, infant tylenol, and orange juice. After work, I ran to the store and drove out the supplies to her. They were very grateful and the prayers worked: baby stayed healthy.

I also learned of a couple who had finally gotten an apartment, after living on the streets for many years. While they now had running water, electricity, and were out of the elements, the only things they had were the clothes on their backs. I knew I could help: I went to Walmart and bought basic kitchen things: plates, bowls, silverware, mugs, glasses, towels, and pots. Every year around Christmas, I always try to give locally to someone who needs it. I had prayed about it earlier that day, as I didn’t have anyone in mind. Lo and behold, this opportunity rose.

While both of these examples required money and relinquishing plans I had already had, I know it went to a greater good. I know what it’s like to start out with very little, and I’ve been there when I’ve been too sick to open a can of soup for myself, without anyone to help.

In the coming year, I hope to keep myself tuned to those gentle nudging from the Holy Spirit and not to ignore them because they’re inconvenient to me, in time or money: I have been blessed so I can be a blessing.

The Holy Spirit will remind of that in 2018, I am sure!