Each day I live, I get more tired. I’m tired of seeing lonely people. When I drive through an intersection, I see them standing alone at a bus stop or sitting on a bench, and it gets me down. I’m not a saint, a super-Christian or even a good Christian, but I do have enough respect and love for God that I hurt when I see His children alone.

I make a point of smiling at them because I‘ve been hurt enough to know that a simple smile gives dignity to a suffering person; but that‘s not enough, because God asked us to care for His children. Which means rolling up our sleeves.

The Bible is full of wisdom on the poor and suffering as we are told by God: “I will never leave you; I will never forget you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6.) Can we give that same guarantee to our neighbor? God also says: “There will always be poor in the land; therefore, I command you to be kind to your brothers and the poor in your land." (Deuteronomy 15:11.) It strikes me hard and with fear when God “Commands” us to do anything. When God suggests or advises us to do something, that’s serious enough, but to Command! How can I ignore a command from God?

The busyness of our lives is a curse, as we hurry around doing nothing; while the lonely have all day with nothing to do but feel sad. It burns my heart to know that I’m wasting away my life and not helping them the way Jesus would. Jesus said: “If you want to be perfect sell what you own, give to the poor, and you will have treasures in heaven. Then come, follow me.” (Mathew 19:21.) It’s so simple: we have to get rid of the things of this world, and give ourselves totally to those who are lonely. This will please God, and He will give us treasures in heaven. Once we have thrown away the things of this world, we can then follow Jesus. After all, if we learn nothing else about Jesus, we at least know one thing: He loved everyone. It’s up to us. We can wake up tomorrow and be the same, or we can help them.