JUST VISITED WITH MY NEIGHBOR YESTERDAY. It was an inspiring talk over the fence, so to speak. She is in her 80’s, a widow, having lost her husband last winter. Mrs._________ just returned from a trip to the Netherlands where she immigrated from back in the 50’s. Even though she is understandably lonely, and not feeling well, plus finds it quite difficult to walk, she is remarkable in her attitude---very positive, witty, and full of concern for others.

As we parted company she remarked how she was going to spend July 4th: “I think I will go on over to the nursing home and visit a friend this afternoon.” I took about four steps before it dawned on me what she had just said. Wow! What a caring lady. In that moment she evicted any sense of self-pity, despite her condition.

I’ve read countless books and articles that addressed the subject of dealing with discouragement. Most of these writers point out the need to re-focus—to look out beyond one’s own problem in an effort to concentrate on helping someone else that is experiencing a trial of some sort. You see, not only are others helped and encouraged, but the giver experiences a therapeutic boost as well.

That’s exactly what took place in the Macedonian churches as recorded in II Corinthians 8. Paul commended those believers for their generosity. He said that they gave out of “severe trial and extreme poverty” to the impoverished believers in Jerusalem. And what’s more, the Macedonians were overjoyed as they gave. They saw a need and met it. They forgot about their own condition and concentrated on those whose plight was similar to theirs.

I know it’s hard to imagine because we are such a “me-centered” culture. But the truth is that when we lose ourselves in service to others, we find contentment and purpose undreamed of. So the next time you begin to feel sorry for yourself, remember this remarkable lady and focus on the needs of others. It will put a smile on your face and a spring in your step.