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I was watching a documentary titled “Live to Lead” on Netflix, and this quote by Nelson Mandela immediately jumped out to me in the first few minutes, “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” ~ Nelson Mandela

This quote stayed with me as I continued watching the documentary. The desire to make a difference and lead with this idea is a great cause, but what does that really mean? How do we make a difference? How do we know if we are making a difference? Can we even make a difference? Can we even move the needle?

There is so much happening in the world around us, and focusing on all these issues can be overwhelming and tiring. Slowly, we begin to feel like little parts of us are being chipped away – and we can’t do anything about it – and we might start to feel powerless.

But are we really powerless? We need to step back and ask ourselves – what is the theme of our shared humanity, and what is the simple underlying theme of what God has asked us to do in our daily walk? If we think about the simple concept of loving one another and loving others as ourselves, we can begin to look out for each other – with the consciousness of our shared humanity – caring, loving, sharing, and showing empathy. We can put in the work to ensure that love and human dignity are at the core of our actions, thoughts, and behaviour when interacting with each other. We might not be able to touch all, but we can touch the people we meet or interact with.

Now, we cannot do any of these in our strength – we need to remember that we are only capable of love because He first loved us. His words can inspire and help us find ways to help others and be of service to make an impact.

  • We are called to let our light shine brightly before others so that the world may see our good deeds and glorify our Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)
  • We are called to use our freedom to humbly serve one another in love rather than serving our self-interests only through the flesh. (Galatians 5:13)
  • We are told to encourage and build each other up rather than tear each other down with our words and actions. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
  • We are called to carry each other’s burdens and help others when they are down. (Galatians 5:13)
  • We are reminded to share with others because God is pleased with such sacrifices. (Hebrews 13:16)
  • Sharing is caring – and we are called to share with those who have none and to share our food with the poor. (Luke 3:10-11 and Proverbs 22:9)
  • We are also called to take up the cause of those who cannot do it by themselves – by doing right, seeking justice, and defending the oppressed – take up the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow, etc. (Isaiah 1:17)

We are called to love one another and love others as ourselves.

Love,

Toluwalola