Hebrews 13:3
Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.
God wants us involved in service at some level. Even if we are in a very busy season of life, we should have something that we are doing. From a selfish standpoint, it’s important that we are giving of ourselves. Just a still pond gets stagnant, so will we if we aren’t giving. A particular part of a river is constantly getting fresh water and passing on that which was once there. The process of running water cleanses. It’s when water settles and gets still is when bacteria and other living things that are not desirable begin to grow. The water coming in is symbolic of God’s power, love, and more. God wants to fill us with more. However, if we aren’t giving of our time, then we stagnate. Lord, show us opportunities to give and help us to be courageous enough to take them.
The other perspective of the passage is about those to whom we serve. The first group is prisoners. These are those who made mistakes and got caught. They won’t always be in jail. Most will be out and move on with life. Some will continue to be incarcerated for their entire lives. Both groups need help. An effort needs to be made to see these. We won’t bump into this person. This requires planning. Some of my friends are involved in a motel ministry. They provide breakfast and a church service to some in financial difficulties who live in motels. Helping these can give them faith and hope. The second group is those who were mistreated. Widows and orphans are some that come to mind. They didn’t do anything to deserve their circumstance. They are often vulnerable. If we know of any in need, we are to help. That is immediate. If we don’t know of any, we can find groups through church that serve in these capacities. Lord, help us to reach out beyond our comfort zones. Provide open doors for us to find areas where we can be effective.