Hello God, it's me, Mara

Do good

You know, Lord, a friend shared a little-known story of a man named Louis W. Beck. As the story goes, on the night before Christmas many years ago, it is reported that Beck was lost in the desert.

Overwhelmed by the heat and famished for water, he promised God that if he survived, he would give himself to the Lord as a Christmas present. The next day, he was rescued by a traveler and subsequently, he kept his promise.

On that Christmas Day, he asked himself what he might do for God and his fellowman. He was not seeking some spectacular work, but merely to be of help to others. He resolved to save other travelers the hardship and danger he had experienced in crossing the desert, for many had died there (in southern Californian) from the heat, the driving sand and of terrible thirst. Hence, he planted here and there, over a stretch of 100 miles, guideposts pointing the way for those who might be lost. He also left cashes of dried meat and bottled water for travelers in distress.

In so doing, Beck preached a sermon in deeds as he chose to simply and humbly go about doing good. He was aware that Christ Himself was described as one who “went about doing good.”

During this New Year, Lord, help us carry out at least some aspect of Your plan for each of us, to “go about doing good.” Help us to do something “good” every day.

Roman’s 1:10-11 says, “… But glory and honor and peace to every man who does good. … For there is no partiality with God.” This season and ALL year, may we choose to go about doing good. Thank You, Lord, that You would prompt us, for no matter where we are, we don’t have to look far to see someone in distress.

Love, Mara