And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. – Galatians 6:9-10

One week. That’s the amount of time that passed between our youngest son’s premature birth and my father-in-law’s diagnosis with terminal lung cancer that resulted in his death a few days after my son’s due date.

Seven weeks. That’s how much time passed between the two events. I was recovering from a difficult pregnancy and challenging delivery while going back and forth to visit my son in the neonatal care unit. My husband was shuttling me, doing what he could to help me care for the other two kids at home, and then going to be with his parents.

Eight weeks. That’s how long our church of about 30 families provided meals for our family while we struggled to keep up with the demands upon us. I will never forget how our heavenly Father expressed His love for our family through that tiny body of believers.

Maybe that’s why I try to be available to others in need – because I know how it feels both to wade through tragedy alone as well as with the support of the body of Christ. This week has been a lesson in availability.

It started Monday morning. I had multiple deadlines that day, but heartache has deadlines all its own. First a disciple in Kenya desperately needed encouragement, then a disciple in Anchorage needed wisdom, and then my friend let me know her father died during the night. I prayed and focused on what God had put before me, knowing He would multiply His grace to help me do what I needed to do. And He did.

Then yesterday morning, as I faced another critical deadline, a friend texted me and asked if we could have lunch in an hour. I looked at the script I was writing, prayed for help and then agreed to meet her. And because I did, not only were the two of us edified (we all need giggle breaks), but I was able to share the gospel with a young woman in the mall restroom. Then, as I stopped at the grocery store to pick up a few things on my way home, I was able to share the gospel with a young lady who loaded my bags into my trunk. If I had said no, it’s likely neither of these young women would have heard about a Savior who loved them to death and who now offers them life in Him.

The Lord worked out my schedule today so I have no hard deadlines, freeing me to take dinner to my friend who is mourning the loss of her father. I’ve already been blessed by this friend’s zeal for Christ and her joy that her father’s faith is now made sight. I am thankful I am able to serve. I wish I could do more.

But so many times these days, I see members of the body of Christ having to struggle alone. People are too busy to reach out. We no longer make ourselves available. Our schedules are full. But are our hearts?

A single person can’t address every need on her own. Nor should she try. But if each of us can do what we are able – send a card, make a phone call, pay a visit, be there.

Remember a time is coming when you’ll want someone to be there for you, so be there for someone who needs you. We reap what we sow.

Freely you have received; freely give. – Matthew 10:8