In The Master's Service

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LEND A HELPING HAND

Elder Louis Culver

When you are helping someone, think not that you are giving a hand-out, but rather think that you are giving a hand-up.

Frequently those who give assistance want everyone to know what they did. This attitude is prevalent in today's society. However, this attitude negates any thought of caring for those who are in need and rather emphasizes just how much the giver desires to enhance the thoughts about himself. There is something lost in the interpretation.

Today there was a fire in a house trailer. It seems practically everything was lost. The occupants, a lady, her mother, and three daughters, ages four, 12 and 14, were unharmed. The husband died two years ago.

Situations such as this give people an opportunity to share with people who are less fortunate. It affords a means of assisting humanity in times of need.

For several years there has existed a "Blanket Ministry" for the purpose of assisting others. This ministry began by providing blankets to cancer patients in the Children's Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. It was well received by the patients and the hospital staff. However, someone made the decision that the hospital should not allow these activities. The program was removed to a facility where female cancer patients stayed following surgery. The program was well received.

Others have benefited from this ministry. The family mentined here will also benefit.

It has been extremely gratifying that people have been willing and eager to be a part of the Blanket Ministry. So far as I know, no one has asked for or desired any recognition. The idea has been, "How may we help; how can we be a part of this program?"

"Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when thou doest thinge alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do..." Matthew 6:1-2a.