.....stay

Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant...” Philippians 2:5-7

Want to know the weather? Just check the dog by the back door:

If the dog is wet, it’s raining.

If the dog is really soaked, it’s pouring.

If his fur is standing up, it’s windy.

If there’s snow on his back, — it’s snowing. ( for this method to work, the dog has to stay outside — especially when the weather gets bad)

Sincerely,

The Cat

It’s a silly image, but it hits close to home. It’s funny how often we’re like that cat — content to let someone else deal with the cold, wet, messy parts of life while we stay warm, comfortable, and dry. Whether it’s a difficult conversation, a friend in crisis, or a need in the church, it’s tempting to think, “Someone else will handle it. I’ll just stay right here.”

But real love doesn’t hide behind the door. 

And real faith doesn’t settle for comfort.

Jesus certainly didn’t. He didn’t watch our struggles from a safe distance. He didn’t send encouragement from heaven without getting involved. Instead, he stepped into our weather — our mess, our pain, our broken world. He got wet. He got hurt. He walked through wind and storm right beside us.

And if we’re following Jesus, we’re expected to carry that same faithfulness into the lives of others. To step outside our comfort zone. To get our hands dirty. To check on our neighbor, send that text, sit with the hurting, show up for the lonely, and love people in practical ways — even when it’s inconvenient, uncomfortable, or downright messy.

It’s not about being a hero. It’s about showing up — like Christ does for us — again and again. With love. With patience. With grace that doesn’t quit when the weather gets rough. So today, don’t be like that cat. Be like Christ. Step out into someone’s storm.

Prayer

Father, thank you for showing up for me every day, rain or shine. Help me not to hide in comfort or convenience, but to step out in love. Give me eyes to see who needs a reminder of your love — and the courage to be that reminder. In Jesus’ name, amen.