“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Hebrews 13:16
Highlights for Children is an American children’s magazine. I am 65 years old and still remember spending time at the dentist office thumbing through the pages. I loved Gufus and Gallant and could relate to the manners my parents wanted and the poor behavior I exhibited.
I always looked for the “Hidden Pictures” feature. I was so excited as a kid to look for the smaller hidden images found within one large picture. Actually, I hate to admit it, but if I found a Highlights right now I would turn to page 7 and find the hidden pictures. I wouldn’t be able to help myself. Now other people might hide the magazine within the pages of a Newsweek Magazine to save their mature persona, but not me as I would be so excited I would just start searching for the mini pictures.
Hidden Pictures reminds me of something important. Some of the most significant things on this planet are right under our noses. But we have to look for them. For example, the hurting and helpless of this world are all around us, but like the magazine, they blend into their surroundings and often go unnoticed. They don’t blend in by choice, and it’s just that many of us don’t take the time and energy to look. The mom is doing her best to raise three young children by herself. The older adult who has been abandoned by family and friends. The elementary-age kid who just isn’t accepted or is bullied by peers. The veteran with PTSD that has run out of options and reasons for living.
Luke 6:30 “Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back.” John 15:13 “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Clearly, we all need to spend a little more time looking for the “hidden lives” hiding in plain sight around us. Don’t feel guilty; simply understand there are people in your world now who would appreciate a cup of cold water, a listening ear, help to step up, and not just a handout.
