
On September 25, 2000, Kevin Hines paced the Golden Gate Bridge, ready to kill himself but hoping for something else. “I said to myself, ‘If one person comes up to me and says, “Are you okay? Is something wrong? Can I help you?” I was going to tell them my whole life story and they were going to make me safe.’”
The bridge is an incredibly busy place with cars and bicyclists and pedestrians. It is incredibly easy to overlook just one. No one asked. He jumped—and survived. And now he tells his story of healing and hope to others who are struggling.
It’s easy for our churches to have a similar problem. Between meetings and multiple worship services and so much to be accomplished by so few people, it’s easy to overlook just one. But each of us can make a difference. This week, look at the people in your church and community with fresh eyes. Try to pick someone who is pacing, wishing someone would ask, “Are you okay?” Look at the visitor and smile. Ask a worn-out, busy mom, “Can I help you?” Be willing to tell your story of healing and hope. Talk about the God who loves you, who gives you a certain hope when situations seem bleak, who comforts you when you are lonely.
In this life you are surrounded by others for a reason. “In fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be” (1 Corinthians 12:18).
Let’s look out for one another.