A Ripple in the Pond

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Cor 12:9

2020 has been a year of trials, but in our weakness, God reveals his glory. The pandemic, social unrest, and election have captivated the news cycle, but, through it all, there have also been stories of kindness and generosity that are no less newsworthy, but which don’t get the headlines they deserve. I wanted to share one of those stories that has made an impact on me this year. In September, one of my coworkers received devastating news: a late night trip to the emergency room with their young son had revealed that their son had a tumor on his brain and doctor’s needed to operate to save his life. Further tests revealed that cancer had spread to other parts of their son’s body and that a long road of treatment lay ahead. As a father myself, it is difficult for me to imagine how difficult this news must have been and how difficult their journey must have been over the last few months. But as trying as it has been, the amount of love and blessings that have flowed their way from their community has been a testament to how much God loves each of us. Social media and crowdfunding platforms allowed their story to be shared and touch the hearts of people who they will never meet, but who felt led to help in any way they could. Hundreds of gifts of encouragement and support have poured in from across the country and the world to lift their family up. As you reflect on opportunities to share God’s love and generosity as we close out the year, consider how even though a single gift might only make a ripple in the pond, the strength of community is in the ability to make a great wave in our world.