USA (MNN) — Yesterday, we talked about the pandemic’s toll on mental health and the need for hope in uncertain times. Today, Ron Hutchcraft of Ron Hutchcraft Ministries describes three tangible ways you can be a hope-bearer.
“Let me give you what I call ‘opportunities to be the face of Jesus in someone’s life,’” Hutchcraft says.
The first is remembering special days. Something as simple as sending a text message, or a card in the mail, can deliver hope to a person in need.
(Photo courtesy of Ron Hutchcraft Ministries)
“You be the one who remembers an anniversary of some event in their life that nobody else would remember, but you honor that day in some way.”
Second, walk alongside your fellow human during a season of grief. “A loved one has died. They’re going through, or have just completed, a divorce. Those are opportunities to be Jesus for them,” Hutchcraft says.
Meeting an everyday need can speak volumes to those with overwhelming burdens.
“Maybe it’s finding a restaurant that does curbside service and buying someone a meal, just to show you care,” Hutchcraft suggests as an idea.
Third, put together a “care package” filled with a person’s favorite items. Gift cards go a long way, too.
“At another time when things are normal, it might not be that big a deal. But right now there’s so much discouragement, so much uncertainty, so much loss and depression [that] a little thing makes a big difference,” Hutchcraft says.
“[Do] the kinds of things that say ‘I see you. I know you’re there. You matter to me.’”
Header image is a representative stock photo courtesy of Rosie Kerr/Unsplash.
