A heart of concern

Let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.            — Philippians 2:3-4

Jason Ray was a ray of joy on the University of North Carolina campus in Chapel Hill. He performed as Rameses (the school mascot) for 3 years, hauling his giant ram’s head costume to sporting events one day and children’s hospitals the next. Then, in March 2007, while with his team for a basketball tournament, Jason was struck by a car. His family watched and waited at the hospital but the 21-year-old succumbed to his injuries and died.

His story doesn’t end there, however. Jason had filed paperwork two years earlier to donate organs and tissue upon his death — and that act of concern saved the lives of four people and helped dozens of others. A young man in the prime of his life, with everything to live for, was concerned for the well-being of others and acted on that concern. Those individuals who were helped and their families are deeply grateful for this young man who thought of others.

Jason’s act echoes the heart of Paul’s words in Philippians 2, as he called believers to look beyond themselves and their own interests, and to look to the interests of others. A heart that turns outward to others will be a healthy heart indeed.         — Bill Crowder

Love thyself last. Look near, behold thy duty

To those who walk beside thee down life’s road.

Make glad their days by little acts of beauty

And help them bear the burden of earth’s load. — Wilcox

READ: Philippians 2:1-11

Looking to the needs of others honors Christ.

The Bible in one year:

• Joshua 1-3

• Mark 16