Building Together → Allies Praise

For months we’ve been inundated with reports and numbers, haven’t we, Dear Reader? It started with reports from the other side of the world that didn’t seem to have much affect on us.

Gradually, the reports and numbers spread from foreign shores to our own backyards, bombarding us 24/7 through various mass media. And none of it seems to be encouraging. But, Dear Reader, there is some good news during these tumultuous times.

I’ve been an online shopper for several years. The last several months have made me appreciate the convenience and social distancing of it even more.

Decking out our new home last spring sent me to Wayfair. Their company has donated goods, services, and funds for COVID relief to the tune of a cool two million dollars plus. Wayfair is also committed to building together through their partnerships with Habitat for Humanity and Homes for Our Troops.

Even though I frequently purchase online, I’m not always vigilant at checking on a variety of vendors. I guess I’m an Amazon-aholic. Yes, Jeff Bezos has made headlines for being one of, if not the number one, richest billionaires in America. Nevertheless, Amazon has donated millions of dollars to COVID research, Feeding America, and providing technology globally to help folks stay connected.

The lists go on and on of companies reaching out to help any way they can. Maybe it’s donating masks to schools for students or car insurance refunds, but it all makes a difference, doesn’t it, Dear Reader? Businesses all across America are helping us in building together for a brighter tomorrow.

God didn’t set us up for an angry rejection but for salvation by our Master, Jesus Christ. He died for us, a death that triggered life. Whether we’re awake with the living or asleep with the dead, we’re alive with him! So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you’ll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you’re already doing this; just keep on doing it.
1 Thessalonians 5: 10-12 MSG

We’ve gone the extra mile, offered a helping hand. Perhaps it’s something as simple as purchasing bread from a bakery that’s making it to give away in response to a flour shortage. Then taking the bread to a brand new mom next door.

Obviously, we can’t all be Jeff Bezos and give away millions of dollars. I’m still convinced, Dear Reader, that even a loaf of bread, given in love, brings joy to our Heavenly Father.

This is the best report one not being broadcast nearly enough, one we all need to hear more often: building together is a win-win-win. There’s plenty of blessings to go around: for others, for the Kingdom, and for us. It doesn’t get much better than that.