Make a Difference

“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.”—Ecclesiastes 9:10, NKJV

Just when I thought that residents of California were finally getting a break from all the wildfires, I learned of new ones leaving death and destruction in their path. This year alone, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and the National Interagency Fire Center, as of November 11, a total of 7,579 fires have burned an area of 1,667,855 acres, causing more than $2.975 billion in damages (https:// bit.ly/2zS1Lrd). By the time you read this article, these statistics will be outdated.

The wildfires are just one of many natural disasters and other tragedies that have occurred around the world, causing injuries, loss of life, and destruction of property. “The nations are in unrest. Times of perplexity are upon us. The waves of the sea are roaring; men’s hearts are failing them for fear and for expectation of those things that are coming upon the earth; but those who believe on the Son of God will hear His voice amid the storm, saying, ‘It is I; be not afraid.’ . . . Amid the tumult of excitement with confusion in every place, there is a work to be done in the world”— Evangelism, p. 18.

The tendency is for some people to “put their own spin” on what is happening and why. However, we should not be overwhelmed by fear or become distracted by challenges, but remember the words of Jesus, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age”—Matthew 28:19, 20, NKJV.

During this holiday season, we have an opportunity to make a difference. Yes, we need to pray and we must pray, but as we celebrate the love of Christ with our families, friends, and church families, it is important to remember that there are many who are in need of assistance. Following Christ’s example, we should find ways to touch as many lives as possible, whether it is through making donations or volunteering.

The work which God has called us to do is not yet done, and God is enabling workers to make a difference. “The Lord will raise up men [and women], and place his Spirit upon them, and prepare them for the work which must be done. He himself, the God of truth, will qualify them to bear a fresh, living testimony for him. They will be witnesses for God. They will not spring up from their own prompting; they will be constrained by the Spirit of God to volunteer to advocate truth. God will sustain them. He sees what is needed, and year by year he arranges for his plan of operation. . . . God will work in and through them”—The Review and Herald, May 25, 1897, par. 11.

Blessings to you and your family during the holiday season. Remember, whenever and wherever possible, make a difference for someone in need. Every little bit helps!

Ednor A.P. Davison is the communication director for the Atlantic Union Conference and editor for the Atlantic Union Gleaner.