40 Acts of Lent: Day Three - 'Local'

40 Acts

Act 3 'Local'  by Jackie Kaines

It’s possible to live somewhere all our lives and not have a clue about what’s really going on. So, time to get lost in your neighbourhood. Find out who needs help and how might you fit into that picture. Visit your local pub or coffee shop, (or shop, restaurant, library, community space) – with family or a group from your church. Who's there, and what do they tell you about your community? Can you see a route in to help people?

 “A third time the Lord called, ‘Samuel!’ And Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, ‘Here I am; you called me.’ 

Then Eli realised that the Lord was calling the boy.” 

1 Samuel 3:8 (NIV)

The other morning I walked out of my front door and a fish and chip wrapper was dancing on the pavement. I picked it up and grabbed a piece of cellophane on my way to the bin. On the other side of the road, a coke can rattled. A chap paused and then caught it. We smiled at each other. We’d made a connection and, through our brief wordless exchange, encouraged each other. 

I’m often daunted by the whirlwind that is community life. So many people do so much – coffee mornings, drop-in centres, big charity events, food banks, walking groups… Where would you start to get involved? Why would you start when there’s a swathe of capable people motoring along in the fast-lane of community support? What could I do that others are not already doing better? 

I love the fact that the most unlikely people get involved in God’s work: a shepherd boy becomes a king; illiterate fishermen become teachers; a chap with a speech impediment becomes an orator; embezzling tax collectors become trusted citizens. These individuals are not always totally willing or confident, but they trust in God’s power. They choose to keep saying: ‘Here I am’. Like Jesus, they place themselves in the middle of communities; they listen, ask questions, and respond to what they see and hear. 

It’s amazing what can happen when you exit your house with your eyes and ears open, ready to respond. The smallest action – like picking up a piece of litter – can trigger a chain reaction. Whether it’s an unplanned coffee with someone who needs a chat, helping someone with their shopping, volunteering in a local charity shop, setting up a soup kitchen, joining a club, or becoming a trustee of a local organisation. When you say ‘Here I am’ in your local community, who knows what may happen? 

Choose how to complete this act...

GREEN OPTION: Don't change your plans for the day, but wherever you go, go with extra awareness of those around you, and the readiness to get involved.


YELLOW OPTION: Research local clubs, community gatherings or other local initiatives. Can you support any of them – financially, with time, or with resources? This doesn't have to be a life-changing moment. A demonstration of support that turns you outwards is all that's needed.

RED OPTION: Go somewhere completely out of your way today – is there a busy park you've never been to? A religious group you've chosen to ignore? Choose to lean into your community. 
Take note of what might be missing. 
           What opportunities might there be for you and others to pour out into your community? Start plotting.