Years ago, when Milt’s son died of leukemia, he and his family felt the incredible arms of their community caring for them. This care was expressed in tangible ways. People brought them meals, and many others prayed for them and sent cards, and a number of people gave hugs when they were needed. At the funeral the people who gathered sang “Jesus Loves Me,” and that was so meaningful to Milt that he remembers it clearly today. Some of Milt’s supporters had dealt with similar situations before, and yet others could only sympathize, having little idea what Milt and his family were dealing with. But the entire community cared for them in whatever way they could.

When the apostle Paul talks about the body of Christ in Romans 12, he urges his listeners to use whatever gifts they have been given to their fullest ability. It doesn’t really matter which gifts we might have. What matters is that we use them to the best of our ability for the good of others.

In community, people care for each other. They use their gifts to help each other and to see that anyone who is wounded or hurting or in some other difficulty is looked after and loved. Sometimes healing is possible. Other times mourning and support are needed when healing won’t take place.

At times we all need caring for. Having a community around us to do that is essential.