An iPub Perspective Editorial
By Raeann Schaffer
Randy Schaffer, author of “A Dog Can Make A Difference” (ISBN 978-1948575904), shares ideas for this coming “Make a Difference Day.” This national holiday, held on the fourth Saturday of October since 1992, celebrates giving back to your community by volunteering, donating, building, and more. Though things seem bleak now, remembering Jesus’ teachings reminds us…
The fourth Saturday of October is the official ‘Make a Difference Day’ in the United States. This day was created by USA Weekend magazine in 1992 to offer community support and encourage volunteerism throughout the country. Since its inception, 30 other countries have begun holding a similar day, inspiring over 30 million volunteer hours.
When national or international weather-related disasters occur, the American Red Cross, Doctors Without Borders, Habitat for Humanity, and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), among others, are there to assist. In addition, the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is an outreach ministry of the United Methodist Church that sends teams to rebuild and provide hygiene supplies, water, and emotional support for communities in need.
We watch these and other organizations as they make a difference in the lives of those facing devastating loss. Many of us financially support organizations or volunteer our time to assist in a variety of causes.
Despite all this, we continue to witness pain and darkness around us and often feel like we should become one of those who bring change. This urging can be a result of our faith, possibly from words spoken by the ultimate restorer and peacemaker, Jesus. Let’s look at one passage in the gospel of Matthew where Jesus states, “You are the light of the world.” This passage is spoken at the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount when Jesus is teaching his followers how he wants them to live by ministering in his name. He is explaining to them that they can make a difference for others and be the light in the dark places where others dwell. Jesus is telling his disciples and followers that it is their responsibility, as his followers, to make a difference where poverty, pain, and injustice exist.
Reading this scripture passage, we can imagine Jesus surrounded by throngs who wanted to be near him. Word had spread of his preaching and teaching the good news and how he cured every disease and ailment among the people. Jesus is not only speaking to those gathered around him on that day, he is speaking these words to us as his followers today. After all, we are God’s children.
Through Jesus’s words, we are being called to remember that we are the light that can make a difference in the darkness around us today. It is our responsibility to take up the mantle and make a difference. Take time to ponder how you feel, join an existing organization, or reach out on your own. In doing so, you will make a difference, either in your local community or in a faraway place where people need shelter, food, and clothing in the wake of a natural disaster. So, let’s do it. Let’s make a difference.
“A Dog Can Make A Difference (ISBN 978-1948575904) is available for purchase now!
Featured photo credits: Image by Tumisu from Pixabay.
The views expressed in this commentary do not necessarily reflect those of iPub Global Connection.
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