- photo by Susan PageWhat golden opportunities pass by each day without us even being aware? I’m not talking about a beautiful golden sunrise, though I appreciate those. I’m referring to the golden moments in time. How do we escape the feelings of isolation and separation we may be experiencing or the anxiety we may be struggling through in these days of uncertainty?

These feelings are not limited to the physical but also can lead to mental, emotional and spiritual pain. How do we get out of the headspace of negativity or perhaps our feelings of absolute exhaustion and disconnect? How can we turn our hearts towards thinking of others, especially those who are less fortunate? How will we remain open, loving, and hospitable in these days of polarization? How can we reach out to the newcomer, the one who goes unnoticed on the street, or even worse, the individuals who are overlooked in the pews of our churches?

Wow, that’s many questions to ponder! Where do we turn for answers? The best place to uncover the answers is in God’s Word. When we put hope before headlines, then our anxiety and self-focus shift from panic to peace, from inward focus to upward and outward.

These days are difficult, for the refugees, the elderly, the shut-ins, widows, orphans, the sick and the suffering. How can we be the hands and feet of Jesus? Listen to the words of our Lord, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34, 35).

Perhaps we can turn our thoughts and prayers toward those who don’t have family, a safe place to live or adequate food in their pantry. We can do more than think and pray by putting our faith into action. This requires self-sacrifice and giving. What can we give? … A card, a phone call, an e-mail of encouragement, a meal, a visit ... however God leads. “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). “

There are lonely, hurting, grieving and wounded people who long for a touch, a smile, a word of kindness. It only takes a moment to make someone feel valued.

For example, next time you go through a grocery check-out, or eat at a restaurant ask the person serving you how their shift is going. In my experience, it brings a smile and opens a conversation. The added touch can be calling them by name if they have a name badge. This can be significant. Such a golden moment in time can make an eternal difference in someone’s life while at the same time blessing the giver.

“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5: 1, 2).

“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).

Golden opportunities can slip by so quickly and often in hindsight we can kick ourselves for not taking the time. When talking golden, let’s refer to Christ’s amazing and well-loved teaching which is pure gold, “Do to others as you would have them do to you” (Luke 6:31).

Susan Page is the daughter of the King, His beloved child, wonderfully forgiven and blessed! Susan longs to age gracefully, becoming more like Jesus as she seeks the hidden treasures revealed to her through Scripture, literature, the arts, humankind, and nature.