Today I did something that I am known for putting off, thinking I was too busy or that it didn't really make that big of a difference. Don't get me wrong—giving blood has always been important, I just didn't feel like it was that important for ME to do it. Wow - pretty selfish, right? 

Many people I know are unable to give because of medications, medical history, or some other valid reason, but there is absolutely no reason that I cannot give blood. The Lord convicted me about that a couple of months ago, and I made my appointment and went to the West Ashley Donor Center. Before I left, I made my next appointment, and here I am again. It can't get much more convenient. The picture of the angel with me is Tiny, the Little One, who took me through the process. She obviously enjoys her job, and my comfort was a high priority for her. She even has me all set for my next appointment. Thank you, Tiny B, for allowing me to share our picture! 

The American Red Cross does some amazing work, and they have some great slogans and taglines! Then I thought about how easily those slogans and taglines are also relevant to our spiritual lives.

• Give Something That Means Something: As Christians, we have something that means EVERYTHING, and we still sometimes hesitate to share it. “But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). 

• Sleeves Up, Hearts Open, All In: We are not made to focus only on our own lives, but to be the hands and feet of Christ. "For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another" (Galatians 5:13).

• A little goes a long way.: Kindness goes a long way. "Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you" (Ephesians 4:31-32). 

• All day, every day, whenever someone needs us.: Oh, wow! This one speaks directly to my heart about God's omnipresence. I almost changed the 'us' to a 'me'  to show the correlation to God, but then decided not to because our God is three in one—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. "Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me" (Psalm 139:7-10).  

For the Christian, these are more than just slogans and taglines—they are instructions and promises from God's Word. Just like giving blood, they are not just for everyone else—I must follow and trust them.

 

 

Thank you to all who serve in the American Red Cross.