I live in a home with a wonderful wife, three great kids and a needy dog.  It’s just crazy at times.  Five people and a hyperactive mutt residing in one small space.

There are struggles with sharing bathrooms, the kitchen, the television and even closet space.  The boys don’t like to share toys and Hollianne gets frustrated when she can’t find a favorite blouse- only to find it kidnapped in Carson’s closet.  I get grumpy when the family has consumed all the coffee creamer or my vanilla bean ice cream.  And I hate sharing the remote.

While we often get frustrated with the inconveniences of sharing, we actually have it pretty good.  The kids have enough toys to keep the whole neighborhood happy.  We all have clothes to keep us warm and comfortable.  And I’m almost embarrassed to admit that we struggle over “shower time” in the mornings when we have three full bathrooms.

We are blessed.  Many around us, however, aren’t.

Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Hebrews 13:16

We live in the most prosperous nation in the world, but take a look around.  If we open our eyes we’ll see others across our neighborhoods, cities and region who are not as richly blessed.  Single parent families.  Families struggling to obtain the basics and barely keep their families fed and warm.  The unemployed.  The underemployed.  Good people just down on their luck…and the breaks keep going against them.  These folks are right in front of us.

But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?  1 John 3:17

We have an obligation to help our neighbors.  It’s a command.  Jesus and his followers preached the need to share throughout the New Testament.

And he answered them, “Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.”  Luke 3:11

My prayer today will be for an awakening…a new awareness of those around me in need.  People I can help.  Families that I am commanded to love with a generous, giving heart.  No matter the situation, I always have plenty to share.

Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.”   Luke 6:38

Pray for me…and let me know if I can pray for you.

God bless.