This past week there was a news story about a nine year old girl who died because her grandmother made her run for three hours with no rest or water. Apparently the girl was caught lying about some food she ate. The girl’s pregnant stepmother, who was in the house, did nothing to stop this.
I wasn’t sure which I was more upset by, the child dying, the grandmother’s callus disregard, or the fact that the step-mother and neighbors saw this, but did nothing. If I had seen a girl running up and down her road I might dismiss it. But if a half hour later I still saw her running, I think I might have gone over to see if she was practicing for a marathon. I figure God keeps me from those situations because he knows how my Christian walk would be harmed.
Some people are afraid to get involved. They don’t want to appear snoopy or make a mistake. And in this time we’re living, getting involved might even cost you your life. However, God means for us to take care of each other.
Philippians 2:3-4 reads, Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
Our job while we are here is to love one another. That means if you see something “off”, check into it. And if you’re afraid to get involved for any reason, contact the police. You can do so anonymously.
All it would have taken was one neighbor to get involved and this little girl would still be alive. Keep your eyes opened, and if you see someone in trouble, do something about it. Don’t walk by and ignore it. God will help you overcome any fear. And if you do make a mistake, at least you’ll know you did it with a good conscious. It’s always better to be safe than to know a child died due to your lack of actions.
Thanks, Kathy – we need that reminder – its sad it take a tradegy
like this one to be that reminder. Getting involved can be scary.
But God does expect us to use our common sense and not blindly
rush into a situation. Evaluate and proceed with caution – and with
God’s love in your heart.
Darlene, That is so true. Most of the time we chose to walk away or rush in without asking God. We just need to remember to trust Him with everything we do.