Overlook Stanley Park, Vancouver British Columbia

In her book “Angels in the Workplace,” Melissa Giovagnoli tells the story of a man who was homeless.  The city had  a program to help the homeless population get off the streets by earning money selling newspapers on street corners.

Rain or shine, in cold weather or warm, this formerly homeless man was there.   After a while, he started to recognize the regulars who drove past his corner, waving as he smiled at familiar faces.

One day a woman stopped her car, jumped out and gave him a big hug.  She said, “I want to thank you for simply being here.” She told him about the difficult time she was going through. Every day was a struggle. There were days when she really didn’t know if she could go on.  But each day he stood waving to her at that intersection.   His simple gesture of warmth gave her the strength to endure.

Sometimes, we look at our lives and tell ourselves that we can’t make a difference anywhere. We don’t fully comprehend the impact we have on another person’s life. Simple kindnesses can make a significant difference to a person starved for affection and love. A note, a phone call, a visit, a word of encouragement, a smile or taking time to listen can show that we  genuinely love and care for that person. Our prayers can touch a life and join with Gods for a person’s well-being.

You have it in your power to bless somebody’s life today. You can make a difference. You can be a part of God’s Kingdom of love and kindness. Look around you. Who needs you to reach out as a friend to share God’s love today?

“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” John 15:12

A version of this post was first published as “The Power to Bless” on October 29, 2015