On the way to church

I have a daughter who is always on time for church.  She's always on time, but never early.  She wakes early, but likes to read or be on the computer for awhile.  Then just as it's about time to go, she finishes up her last-minute things and walks out the door with us.  This is just fine.  I never have to worry about her.  She doesn't take up any of my time with any of her own needs.

But . . .

She also is never able to help me.  There are many times when I could use a hand -- Can you find Beth's shoes?  Would you make a bottle for Ben?  Will you go see if the twins are ready?  Since she's not ready, I can't ask.

I think this is a wonderful application for the world at large.  When our own lives are in order, when we ourselves are ready, we are free to help others.  Only then can God say, Could you stop by your neighbor's house?  Could you give your sister a call?  Can you give this extra money to someone else?

There is virtue in taking care of ourselves, but ever so much more in taking care of ourselves and then looking around to see who else we can help.