Vulnerable and Available

When I started this blog, my high school friend Kathy told me she admired my courage and vulnerability in my writing. Not sure if it’s courage, but it certainly is being vulnerable when you share your thoughts and feelings on Substack.

Thirty plus years ago, my husband and I attended a Sunday School class led by a wonderful lady named Gerry. As an adult I never had a teacher quite like Gerry, and not only did I admire her style, but she had a unique knack of connecting with everyone. As she shared deeply personal stories, I found that they were extremely relatable. When our teacher was willing to make herself vulnerable, it encouraged us to do the same.

I wonder if being vulnerable also makes us more available. Perhaps being available then results in a greater impact on those around us. Family, friends, neighbors, coworkers and acquaintances. What happens when you combine vulnerability with availability? How is that for a new algorithm.

Thinking back, I easily see how God has repeatedly placed people in my path. Why is that? Maybe it’s about being available resulting in opportunities to help others. I promise you that the blessings you receive are far greater than those you are giving. Ask God to help you listen with your spiritual ears. Don’t ignore those with needs and choose to walk away in a different direction. Instead, see if you can figure out the need and possible solutions.

I admit some situations may be messy, like really messy. Helping people deal with mental health issues, addiction, cognitive decline, legal problems, ongoing medical issues, housing needs, finances, and more can be overwhelming. But investing in helping others allows us to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus. We may be the only person helping that person in need. The only one who will listen. The only one who cares. The only one who doesn’t act as if they are invisable.

I am totally convinced God directs us to those we need to help. He orchestrates the entire situation. He knows our skills and gifts that will ease the burdens others carry. Do availability and vulnerability go together? I’m thinking they do. What are your thoughts? Let me know by dropping a line in the comments.

I know this, keep your eyes open, ask God to give you discernment, and when the time comes boldly take that first step to help that person He places in your path. If you don’t help, who will? Make yourself both vulnerable and available to God’s precious Holy Spirit.