Always Worthwhile

Jesus said, “The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” — John 14:26 (NIV)

     As a mother, wife, and full-time editor, I nearly always feel as if I have too much to do and not enough time or energy to do all of it as well as I would like.  Nearly everyone I know feels this way at some time or another.  In facing daily challenges and especially in facing the injustice and suffering in the world, perhaps it is human nature to wonder: What if I can’t give enough?  What if the best I can do is not good enough?  Should I even try?  The writers in this issue share stories of faithful courage and perseverance that offer a resounding and encouraging response: Yes! Efforts toward love and justice — even seemingly insignificant ones — are always worthwhile.

     On the Day of Pentecost, God sent the Holy Spirit to dwell among us so that we would never have to depend solely on our own strength.  Even when we think that what we can do or give is not enough, it is still worth doing what is right, giving what we have, and being who we are for the good of the world.  The Holy Spirit — our advocate and comforter — rekindles the message of Christ in our hearts and sends us out into the world to love our neighbors.

     Thankfully, God does not ask for perfection, only our faithful participation.  Our loving God continually calls us back to rest and renewal, then sends us out with the strength and power of the Holy Spirit to love and serve God’s world once again.