More from Daniel Bollinger

“Sis” (the calf) was the only calf—in fact, the only animal—I remember riding inside my dad’s small car. Our family enjoyed Sis’s company as she grew into a cow and raised several calves among our herd of cows. She was always friendly and seemed to show gratitude to my father for rescuing her. That night God put my father and I in the right place at the right time.

We will never know this side of heaven whether the good Samaritan and the person he saved stayed in contact throughout life as friends or pen pals. Perhaps the two men never saw each other again, which happens commonly in today’s world after we help someone. For example, I doubt many people keep in contact with a nurse they met briefly after recovering from surgery. Or a firefighter who assisted at the scene of a vehicle wreck. But all those individuals, whether volunteers or in a full-time helping occupation, matter and make a difference. Thank you to everyone who serves others!

I was reminded of the parable of the good Samaritan recently during a giveaway event at our church. Church members handed out bags of hygiene products and school supplies to less fortunate folks in the community. Anyone from the community and surrounding area was welcome to receive these bags and delve through clothing, kitchen utensils, furniture, and other items donated by church members. The event was a huge group effort, and many folks benefited from needed clothing right before the start of a new school year. Participants could even grab breakfast burritos and juice to enjoy during the morning. It was a great event.

I try to live life thinking about others and ways to serve them as Christ intended us to do. At times, like many people, I do struggle to overcome selfish desires. But helping others always warms my heart and fills my soul, unlike the empty feeling I get from completing a self-accomplishment goal that I originally thought would satisfy my desires. I encourage everyone to try some sort of volunteer activity, whether you serve others directly or indirectly. I appreciate all those who have helped me grow in my faith and influenced me throughout my faith journey. Thank you for reading my devotional and this blog. May God continue to bless you all with everything you need and the strength to help others succeed in life.