People issues

I had a people issue to deal with this morning at work that on first view appeared to be a nuisance and a distraction. But while getting ready to go to work, I realized that how I choose to respond to life's "people issues" can be one indication of whether I want to walk the walk or just be a big talker.

Christ taught the parable of the good Samaritan to help us understand that "people issues" don't happen at convenient times. Sometimes there's even a monetary cost involved with the service rendered.

To further emphasize the point, it was the so called "righteous" individuals that passed by the man who had been beaten and robbed. These individuals that should have and could have been in a position to help, crossed to the other side of the road so as to not be inconvenienced or be made late for their appointments of the day.

Then to really drive the point home, Jesus had it be a Samaritan that came to the aid of the bruised and broken victim.

What an opportunity we have to embrace the sometimes uncomfortable, unpredictable world of helping to lift others. Each of us is uniquely positioned to make a positive difference when "people issues"--big or small--crop up around us.

I'm so grateful for all who have prayed and still pray for Talitha. It can't be easy to keep it up as the months keep ticking away.

We have been the thankful recipients of untold kindnesses and support as we have been figuratively laying there bruised and broken.

So many have embraced the inconveniences and troubles our "people issues" have caused these past 6 months. The support has been a god-send. Thank you for not crossing over to the other side and leaving us to deal with everything alone. We know that would have been easier for you.

Thank you.

Tonight was family night so we got together for a little lesson and to talk and share some time together. It was my turn to teach the lesson and after a while, everyone settled down and listened pretty well.

Toward the end, I made some comment to thank all the children for listening to such a crazy lesson (i.e. thank you for putting up with me) and out of the blue, Tali just laughed out loud.

Of course, that got everyone else laughing.

Tali either has a great sense of humor or lucky timing. Either way, we're so glad she is feeling well enough to participate with the family.