by Victoria Heinecke

Caring for others can be a gift to oneself.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“Do not cast me away when I am old;
    do not forsake me when my strength is gone.”
Psalm 71:9 New International Version

You wouldn’t know it to look at it today, but this plant was on a shelf of discarded houseplants at Trader Joe’s. It was wilted and neglected, but it revived after it was taken home and given some tender loving care.

Stores which sell houseplants, as well as plant nurseries, may have a section where plants are offered at a discount. The plants appears wilted, spindly, and less than perfect. Perhaps someone will see the potential in a plant, take it home and nurse it back to health. Other plants will stay on the table, eventually to be discarded.

For those of us struggling with trials, we can feel like the plants on that table. We look less than perfect, and are sometimes passed over for those that are healthier, younger, and more vigorous.

All we need is someone who can see our heart. We seek the One who knows us, and who will rescue us from our trials.

“Test me, Lord, and try me,
    examine my heart and my mind;“
Psalm 26:2 New International Version

This leaf began as a curly tendril, and with a little attention, bloomed into a blood-red, heart shaped leaf. Its “heart” is now proudly visible for all to see, since it began thriving in its new home.

“But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him.”
Luke 10:33-34 New International Version

The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) illustrates how God calls us to care for those in need. When we also care for ourselves spiritually, and let God nurture us by his Word and grace, we are equipped to have compassion for others.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado

Photos copyright Renée Tarantowski Baude