Paul said “I know what it is to be in need and I know what it is to have plenty.” I can’t say that I can relate. I don’t know what it is like to be in need and I have always had a warm place to sleep at night. Last night as I sat in the cold waiting for a marshrootka to pick me up and take me to the place where I currently lay my head, my mind began to wander to those who aren’t waiting for a warm bus to take them to a warm apartment. I then thought of my friends who used to live on the street. Of Vlad; and of Max; of the young girl at Agape Church who gave her testimony, of the young boy who gave his at the tennis tournament last week, and I thank Jesus that someone at some time saw them—really saw them—and then cared enough to do something.

Emily had a worship team meeting at her house today and I couldn’t help but think, and I’m pretty sure Emily would agree, that what happens on Sunday morning as the team sings is such a small part of worship. Sunday morning songs are great, but they should be a celebration of the worship that is taking place in our lives every day all week long.

So yes, may I lift my voice in song to Him. May I meet with other believers and enjoy the incredible glimpse of Heaven that I am given each week as we worship together. I thank God for those moments of refreshment and joy. But may I also be one who sees the child on the street, the babushka by the metro, the friend who is hurting, the businessman who lost his dreams somewhere along the way, the girl who is longing for love and finding a cheap imitation, the teenager thinks breaking up is the end of the world. May my heart (followed by my time and my efforts) be focused on the ones who need a savior. (that’s all of us by the way :o) May I see them and then may I love them with the love of the One who first loved me, because He is everything. And anything I have to offer I have because of Him.

“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Hebrews 13:15-16