I am responsible. When anyone, anywhere, reaches out for help, I want the hand of AA always to be there. And for that I am responsible. (Alcoholics Anonymous)
This “Responsibility Statement.” written for the AA international convention in Toronto in 1965 put words together that had long been of significance to AA. Many of the principles in AA are rooted in truths from the Bible practiced by the founders. This willingness to respond to someone in need is one of those.
Do everything you possibly can for those who need help. If your neighbor needs something you have, don’t say, “Come back tomorrow.” Give it to him immediately. (Proverbs 3:27-28 ERV)
Proverbs is a book of wise sayings and in it we are reminded to act for the good of others, to do it now, and not wait for a more convenient moment or another day,. When Jesus spoke of those who showed by their actions that they were right with God, He revealed that the help they had given others was as if it had been done to Him.
“Then those that are right with God will say, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You? When did we see You thirsty and give You a drink? When did we see You a stranger and give You a room? When did we see You had no clothes and we gave You clothes? And when did we see You sick or in prison and we came to You?’ Then the King will say, ‘For sure, I tell you, because you did it to one of the least of My brothers, you have done it to Me.’ (Matthew 25:37-40 NLV)
It’s not our job to “fix anyone” but it is our God given responsibility to look with eyes of compassion and lend a hand to those around us. As we’ve been forgiven and purified by God, and supported in our journey by others, now it is our turn – whether we are one day into recovery or many decades – to lend a hand to another. The amazing thing is, as we make life a bit easier for someone who is suffering, even though it may inconvenience us in the moment, we will find joy and contentment filling our own hearts.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Please help me change my self-centered focus. Give me eyes to see and a heart of compassion to take action today to respond to someone in need. Amen
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