Difference Makers

Yesterday was the official "Make a Difference Day" around here and, well, every where across the nation, I believe.

The day provides a great opportunity for volunteers to lend a hand – especially to those who physically or financially can't do for themselves. I know there were a lot of leaves being raked up and probably some trash picked up, too. And a lot of young people were doing the work – either seeking volunteer hours for school or doing it out of the goodness of their hearts.

Just think what the world would be like if we were Making a Difference every day instead of once a year. Then it might just become second nature, like it does for a cross country runner we witnessed making a difference Saturday.

While we Assumption parents and runners were celebrating the news of our trip to state, down the hill below the Division 1 girls were just finishing their race. For some reason, we all turned to watch. And that's when we saw it.

A runner from one school was practically carrying a girl from another school who either passed out or got injured close to the final stretch that leads to the finish line. This was a sectional race. If a runner was delayed in any way – like stopping to help a stranger – she was throwing away any chance of advancing to state. Either the healthy runner knew she was out of contention already.

Or she knew that helping the other girl was simply what a Christian should do – no matter the circumstance.

It was heartwarming to see. The injured girl was near collapse, but the other girl would not let her go down. She almost had to drag her along but she was determined they both would cross that finish line. No matter what their time was.

There was much applause and, if other spectators were like me, a few goosebumps and a lump in my throat. All of us there knew the significance of the race that day. The significance of each lost second. We all knew the significance of her actions, too.

So did God.

During the sermon in church this morning, our guest pastor coincidentally was asking us what we have done that makes us worth saving? We are fortunate that we are saved by grace and do not have to prove ourselves. However, that doesn't mean we can be complacent, only "working" our faith one day a year.

Think about that the next time a friend, loved one or even a stranger stumbles next to you – whether physically, spiritually or emotionally. Are we willing to take our eye off the prize and be content with a different kind of reward?

I, for one, think it is worth it to make the effort to make a difference. No matter what day it is.

I'm willing to give it a try. Are you?