Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise,” (Luke 10:37 NIV).
An illustration I’ve heard several times tells of a man walking along a beach where thousands of starfish had washed up on the shore. One by one, the man picked up the starfish and tossed them into the life-giving water. A passer-by watched for a moment and then said, “Why are you doing that? What does it matter–you’ll never be able to help them all!”
Without pausing, the man picked up another starfish and replied, “It matters to this one.”
Many times as I become aware of all the needy people that surround me in every arena of my life, I’m tempted to be discouraged by the relatively few people I can help in my small counseling ministry. However, when Satan whispers, “What does it matter–you’ll never be able to help them all,” Jesus helps me focus on the individuals with whom I’m involved at that time. Lovingly He speaks the words that give me the incentive I need to press on, “It matters to this one.”
Heavenly Father, help me not to be overwhelmed by the multitudes but to focus on individuals who can be helped, one at a time. Amen.
(Devotional adapted from Homespun Faith, Reflections from the Seasons of Life, copyright 2014 Daisy Beiler Townsend. Available as paperback or ebook: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Xulon Press. There are Links on this website on the Where to Buy Homespun Faith and Sarah’s Legacy page. Locally at Fresh Grounds, M & M Grocery, Leana’s Books, Penn Alps in Grantsville, Maryland, or from me 724-373-8445.)