As the organiser of a teenage coffee-bar ministry, I have the privilege of spending time each Thursday with some brilliant young people.They’re full of life. They brim with passion about their interests and laugh with an abandon that is rare among adults. But each week – over steaming cups of cappuccino – they tell me how domestic abuse, disease, homelessness, the death of loved ones, depression and a slew of other adversities weigh on their hearts. And each time, my heart breaks a little more, too. What can be done about such overwhelming suffering?

As much as I wish I could mend their broken hearts, I can’t. Jesus is the only one with the power to do that. But he can use me despite the cracks in my own heart. He can pour out his Spirit through my pouring a fresh cup of coffee or tea and offering a sense of his presence as I sit down to share a listening ear or word of encouragement. Though we can’t solve all the world’s problems, by being present and willing to listen, we can let the love of God flow through us to those around us.

 

Prayer: Compassionate God, help us to share your overflowing love with those we meet today. Amen