We all love to be a blessing.  Anyone raised in the church loves to do things for others in need--to serve in places where they feel wanted.  As believers we often come to feel like we are doing our duty if we serve.  I was reminded today though, that one of the ways we bless others is by making our needs known so we can be served. 

As a single mom, holidays are hard, especially the ones that involve celebrating . . . well . . . me.  Every birthday, Mother's Day . . . these put me in a quandry of what to do.  This year for my birthday, I thought if I ignored it, it would just go away, and it wouldn't bother me so much that no one had really celebrated it.  When my closest friends found out, I really got in trouble, and rightly so.  I had deprived them of the opportunity to serve me, and to celebrate God's goodness in bringing me into their lives.  I had robbed them of the opportunity to be a blessing.  I decided that I was not going to do the same thing for Mother's Day. But what to do?

 This morning I had a my oldest son call a friend close by to take he and his brothers shopping.  I sent them with money.  When she picked them up, I could see the delight on her face.  I was giving her the opportunity to serve me!  I gave her the chance to love me, and to love and serve Christ.  In my weakness and need, I was being Christ to her and to her family. 

 "Then these righteous ones will reply, `Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? When did we ever see you sick or in prison, and visit you?' And the King will tell them, `I assure you, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!' 

Matt 25:37-40 (NLT)

As single moms, we constantly face our need.  Families were just never intended to be cared for and raised by only one person.  It was meant to be a team effort from the beginning of time.  As we serve our families, we are showing Christ to them.  As we serve friends in the midst of our own busy, chaotic lives, we are showing Christ to our friends and neighbors.  But we also show Christ when we are brave enough to reveal our weak and needy spots, allowing someone else to step in and help.  Not only do we show Christ in that way, but we get to see Him too, in the faithful service of His body.  How is God calling you to show Christ today?