Practical Love

Scripture – Mark 6:53-56: ⁵³When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret and anchored there. ⁵⁴As soon as they got out of the boat, people recognized Jesus. ⁵⁵They ran throughout that whole region and carried the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. ⁵⁶And wherever he went—into villages, towns or countryside—they placed the sick in the marketplaces. They begged him to let them touch even the edge of his cloak, and all who touched him were healed.

Reflection: Jesus’ reputation as a healer had become wide-spread. So people crowded around whenever they heard He was in the area. He healed all who came and touched Him.

I know Jesus is much more than a healer. His mission – His purpose in coming to earth – is much bigger than healing physical ailments. Yet that’s what He did. That’s one of the ways He impacted the lives of people. And here, I don’t see Him asking anything else of them.

It puts me in mind of our Food Pantry at church. We give away food twice a week to people who need help. We don’t ask questions. We just offer a bit of practical love as followers of Christ.

Every situation doesn’t have to be a preaching event. Sometimes I just do good because there’s good to do. I will look for ways to serve people today.

Lord, remind me to love people in practical ways today. Keep me looking beyond myself. Help me help people where they are without asking anything in return.