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When someone faces the results of a bad accident, a devastating illness, the birth of a child with disabilities, or any mental or physical challenge, their world changes. Their former expectations and dreams are gone. It is a frightening time for them, their families, and close associates. Where do they go for advice, comfort, or actual physical help?

To the Church, the hands and feet of Jesus in this world! Are we ready – prepared in our minds, hearts, bodies, schedules, and pocketbooks? Not if our own “to do lists” are filled with “non-negotiables” or our minds are overloaded with fears that say “I could never do that!”

Have we forgotten that God anointed us with His powerful Holy Spirit so that we can stand firm in Christ, standing on all the promises, as we go forward in faith, not fear. (2 Corinthians 1:18-22) Have we forgotten, as followers of Christ, that His Spirit lives in us to bear fruit? “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23)

Paul cried out in 2 Corinthians 1 that he despaired, even of life, that in his heart he felt the sentence of death. This feeling of depression is a natural response to loss. But Paul responds that “this has happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God who raises the dead.” (v.9) Our deliverance is sure. Our hope is in Him, “as you help us by your prayers.” (v.11) Paul knew the importance and privilege of prayer. God heard their prayers, would answer their prayers, and many would give thanks.

God has a special place for each one of us in this big ministry to the disabled, be it prayer, preparing meals, visitation, shopping, contributing financially, or any of the other ways of blessing the disabled. Our “God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God” will lead you on with His kindness and love.

“I led them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love.” (Hosea 11:4)