Always Makes Things Better
By Curtis on Sep 14, 2009 in Motivational
“She always makes things better. You know, just like your mom would.” My friend and I were speaking about an awkward situation a group of us had recently experienced. As we rehearsed the events and talked about how we wished things had unfolded in a different way, my friend remarked about her original plans to help improve an inevitably uncomfortable moment.
As she filled me in on her ideas she said “I wanted to ask her to say a few words. She always makes things better”. My friend didn’t know what this person would say to help assuage the situation but she knew that whatever she would say and the manner she would say it in, would make things better.
Wow, what a testimony…to be known as a person who always makes things better. In that instant she had just summarized our entire purpose of ministry…to make things better. Nothing could be simpler and yet nothing could be more profound. Her remark was so telling on one hand and so piercing on the other.
I guess I can say it gave me a moment of clarity. It reminded me again about the choices we make in our brief time here on this earth. It reminded me of the qualities in life that are worth emulating and modeling that give meaning to our lives and purpose to our existence.
I believe that when we embrace that our goal is to always make things better we are somehow better equipped to endure when things get rocky and the obstacles increase. Embracing this truth helps us to find value in people when some would suggest our efforts are futile. It will help us to find a reason to smile and exchange love and compassion when around us are countless excuses for us to do the opposite.
Wouldn’t it be terrific if all of us were known as people who always make things better? People who don’t just make things better in our respective ministries but also on our jobs, in our places of group worship and in our homes. To be known as people who don’t add to the problems and difficulties that may exist; but who always help make things better.
“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven”. Matthew 5:14-16 NIV
I’m going to try to hold onto this moment of clarity and use it to evaluate more closely what I do and how I do it. I can’t change yesterday but I’m sure I’ll have a chance to make things better today. How about for you?
WOW! What a wake up call. So true to watch our actions around people. I am at work more than anywhere else, so this remined me to be mindful that I am a child of God and not of this world.
Thanks for the inspiration and getting me re-focused. It is a daily process.
on 8/21/2008 my daughter who had just started her senior year woke up to find her father my husband had taken his life and it was this ministry
the ministry of letting God use us to say the things that make others feel better.That’s what has gotten my family this far and lot’s of prayer. Not only did she graduate she did it with a advanced diploma GOD IS GOOD
Curtis keep writing your ministry is always on time
Benita, you and your family have survived real tragedy. I’m glad God has seen you through it all.
Thanks for the motivation to let God control my life; making it a blessing to someone. It is interesting how He does this without our knowing it. Sometimes years later we are told of the influence for good we have been. It is true that when we surrender our lives to God, He makes us a blessing, unconsciously, every day.
Curtis, what a fantastic and dynamic charge!
Thanks Benita for sharing your story, what a powerful testimony. God continue to bless and heal you.
Curtis, your “moments of clarity” are always inspiring to me. Thank you for sharing it with me/us as it moved me deeply.
I like to ask these two questions of my audiences, “If we’re not being our best selves and bringing out the best in others, then what are we doing?”
You’ve said it even better. I’m committed to making things better for sure. Thanks for also being one who share and is a beacon of light and love to others, making our world a better place for sure.
Smiles to you this day!
Your Sister and Friend,
Millicent
Curtis,
Thanks for the very inspirational and challenging thought. I’m sure many others who haven’t responded have been blessed by it as I have.
Rhl
Curtis, I look forward to reading these thoughts. They are so powerful and wonderful for me and Betty. I thank God for you and for your love and service. I am so motivated to give my best in service to the Sabbath School. Thank you for such inspiration.
PLJ