Morning glories are my favorite flowering vine. This spring I grew seedlings and planted them in front of several trellis. I had a few of the seedlings left over and decided to plant them at the base of a post that supports a martin birdhouse in our backyard.

Over the next few weeks I noticed the vines were growing, but they were wandering around the post, never reaching upwards, just circling at the base. It was only after some string was wrapped around the post, that the vines began growing upwards as morning glories are designed to do. It seems they just needed a helping hand.

Just like a vine needs something to hold onto so it can grow upward, people need support too. In our lives we encounter people who are like the morning glory vines—wandering, entangled in confusion, fear, or discouragement. People who are seeking direction, but struggling to find their way. Jesus calls us to be like the strings that provide direction and support, giving others a firm foundation to hold onto during their struggles.

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2 . When we help carry each other’s burdens, we are fulfilling the law of Christ. “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” John 15:12 This kind of love gives, supports, and looks out for others that need a helping hand. When we step in to help someone who’s struggling, we’re living out the teachings of Jesus.

Helping hand… makes me think of playing records in my bedroom in the late 60’s and early 70’s. One of my favorites was, “Put a Little Love in Your Heart”. I would play that one record over and over again, singing along.

ink of your fellow man, lend him a helping hand

put a little love in your heart.

And the world will be a better place and the world will be a better place for you and me

just you wait and see,

 “Put a Little Love in Your Heart” was written and sung during a time in our world’s history that can be described as turbulent and divisive. This song was a simple, but powerful reminder that, no matter how dark or divided the times may be, the need for love never goes away. The same message is just as relevant today, as our world continues to face conflicts, divisions, and struggles. There will always be people who are hurting, lost, or feeling hopeless. Our mission is clear—show them the love of Christ. When we take the time to walk alongside someone, lifting their burdens and oering a hand, we’re doing what Jesus did. We’re being His hands and feet in a world that desperately needs hope. Sometimes it’s as simple as some string wrapped around a post.

Lord, may our eyes be open to see those who are wandering and in need of support. Help us to: ink of our fellow man, lend him a helping hand, and put a little love in our hearts daily so that we may help the world be a better place. Amen