This time of year is super busy for our family. It all starts with our daughter Riley’s birthday in October.

Then comes:

Thanksgiving

Christmas

New Year’s Eve (also sweet Hubby and my anniversary)

New Year’s Day

Carson’s birthday

My Birthday

Valentines day

No matter what time of the year it is, it really never ends, does it?

It is so important, in all the buzz, to remember that there are hurting people.

People with deep wounds;

experiencing great loss.

The recent loss of a child.

A parent.

A loved one.

Miscarriage.

Depression.

Loneliness.

The weary and fatigued, from caring for family members who cannot care for themselves.

A word from the doctor about an ultrasound; that the baby growing in that sweet mother’s womb, would not live.

I don’t mean to be a downer during this “jolly” time of year.

Just a reminder, to myself if no one else, that I need to be seeking to minister to others. To weep with those who weep. To truly have a sincere heart of compassion for others.

Are you looking around? Or perhaps, like me, are you so focused on what you need to get done that you are missing taking the time to lend that hand, make that meal, put that arm around that hurting mom?

When I am not actively asking the Lord to make me aware of helping others, my eyes are, too often, fixed on self.

Sometimes, sad to say, I do not want to be bothered. Sounds awful, right? That’s my flesh.

But what if it was my parent who suddenly passed away?

My child who only lived for 2 minutes? :: Like Danielle

Miscarrying a second child in my womb? :: Like Monica.

Experiencing deep loneliness and depression?

I would surely want that arm around me!

I would desperately covet a dear sister in the Lord, crying “real” tears next to me, with a sincere heart of compassion!

I would NEED the prayers of those around me, praying on my behalf, when I did not have the strength to pray!

So won’t you please, take the time to pray, even now. Ask the Holy Spirit to make your heart sensitive, to open your eyes to those who may be hurting around you.