We all know the kind of person we want to be. You could write out the ideals of the kind of character you want to possess and the kind of actions you’d like to be known for, but often it’s as if day-to-day life gets in the way of us living the way we want or ought to. Putting the ideals into practice is the hard part.
This past winter, two women saw a need in their community. There were many homeless teens and children in need of basic supplies. These women decided that instead of waiting for other people to do something about the need, they’d take action—even if this meant a sacrifice of time or money. Here’s the story:
Play this video for your students [1:20].
Two women helping homeless kids in the metro
- These women were inspired to help, but what do you think empowered or strengthened them to take action? (Accept all reasonable answers. These women believed children deserved to feel cared for and loved, they wanted youth to have their needs met so they could feel hopeful about the future, etc.)
- Do you think it’s easier to live in accordance with your values when you have a lot or a little? Why? (Accept all reasonable answers. Perhaps we feel we could give more or do more if we had more resources. Perhaps we find more stuff can mean more distraction and less compassion.)
- Do you think it’s easier to live in accordance with your values when you’re experiencing joy or challenges? Why? (Accept all reasonable answers. Perhaps when we feel good we do good, or perhaps when things are well with us we keep the focus on that and less on the bothers of others. Challenges may give us empathy for others but can also be fully absorbing at the same time.)
Throughout our lives, our circumstances will change bringing highs and lows, but our attitude and actions can remain true to Christ’s call, trusting Him. Christ empowers us to live the way He’s called us to regardless of how much or little we have or how good or bad things are for us that day. He will be our strength.
