Life on Four Strings is the compelling documentary of Jake Shimabukuro, a ukulele virtuoso who is an international icon in the world of music.
Yet, growing up, he had one job: take care of his younger brother.
Years later, Jake’s mother apologized for working multiple jobs as a single mother and depriving her son of a real childhood. He laughed it off, saying it was his childhood, and he didn’t feel deprived.
He took care of the little guy, and that was all right with him.
James 1:27 tells us:
“Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.”
God wants us to take care of the little guy. The picture is much bigger than just orphans and widows. We start there, sure, but we need to look so much further. How about the drug addict that has lost the ability to make good decisions? The church member that hasn’t yet learned to control her tongue? Or the parent that interferes in our marriage?
These are all little guys, people that haven’t matured in Christ. They may be older than we are, have more social prestige, or simply be undesirable, but in God’s eyes, they need a helping hand so that they can grow in him to become more than they are.
Read in 1 Timothy 2:1-4:
“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
There is no such thing as someone who is too far down any road to not need taking care of. From the most powerful world leaders to the homeless person on the street, we need to be like Jake Shimabukuro. If we take care of those around us, the world will be better, and we needn’t feel deprived at all. We will be doing what Jesus would do if he walked at our side.
Nine-tenths of Christianity is caring for those who walk at our side.
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