JAMES 1:27
It had become my passion early on in life to take care of stray cats (thought I’m a little saner about it now than I was then). Early in the morning, summer, winter, rain or shine, I would wake up to feed them, one by one, a feast of cold cuts, cheese, milk … whatever I could find. I would do anything in my capacity to make sure that every single one was happy. To me, they were the homeless people living out on the street, and I made it my responsibility to take care of them. These pets that tired owners had dropped off at my house had become my best friends after reaching out to them. Cats, however, are not the only ones who feel the sting of rejection. Often times, as Christians, we walk through our daily lives avoiding the “unwanted” or the “looked down on” in our society. Maybe it’s the person in the lunch room who no one wants at their table, or maybe it’s the girl who only owns two outfits because her family can’t afford to buy her anymore. Whoever it is, don’t you think that they deserve some love and attention? Would you be willing to reach out to those around you who are rejected by others? Christ’s example was one of being around those who were rejected by His society. Take the time to reach out to those around you who are less accepted; this is true religion according to Christ.
Kristin Humphrey, 17, Houghton Christian Academy, Warsaw, NY
Lord, it isn’t easy to be friends with people who
other people have rejected. Kids might make fun
of me … but I want to do Your will and not worry
about what others will say.