Neighbors need to care for each other

The first killing frost of the season hit Doniphan recently. Frost was on the windshield and the ground. Fall is finally here, and with it the beauty and grace that comes from a world that is getting ready for a winter sleep.

Every season has its own beauty and its scars. As we transition to winter, we will see a short-lived cacophony of color, that all will turn to brown and grey overnight.

The temperature will drop, and many outdoor activities will come to a halt. Some of us will break out the winter clothes and put the safety kits in the cars. Each season has its own beat.

But with the change in season, we need to start looking out for our neighbors. There will be those who will not be able to prepare. Many will need to winterize their home, and not be able too. Many children will be going to school in light jackets because coats are unaffordable.

I believe times are going to be tough this year. Our supply chain has a few kinks in it, and we are not getting what we need.

I’m not saying all of this to bring you down, nor to take away from the beauty that is fall.

I am saying this because we are followers of Christ and as such, we have two commandments to follow: Love God and love our neighbor. (Mark 12:28-34)

Since we have these two commandments, then we need to truly look out for our neighbors.

It really doesn’t take much to make sure no one goes hungry in our towns. We have some great resources that just need your bit. We have food pantries and a Giving Box to help those in need.

As for coats and warm clothing, there are places you can donate in town, and if you are at a loss, take the warm stuff to your church.

The point is, we need to be ready to show God’s love this coming season. I may be wrong, but I have a feeling this winter is going to get rough, and we, the Body of Christ, must be willing to step up and answer the call.

Here is what I’m asking you to do. Go to your church, (yes that church) and get with the priest, pastor, elders, deacons, or whomever your leadership is. Sit down with them and work out a plan of assistance for this winter.

Maybe you can prepare a shelter for those who are homeless. (Yes, we have homeless in our counties.) Maybe check to make sure the local food banks are ready to face the challenge, and if not, help them be ready. Check on your neighbors and make sure they have enough heating fuel. Set aside some warm stuff for those in need.

The point is, we are the keepers of our brothers and sisters. There is no reason why anyone should suffer this winter or in any winter.

It is time to live the two greatest Commandments.

See you in church.

Rev. Kent Wilfong is the pastor of Doniphan United Methodist Church.