Someone to cheer for. . . !

Fall is here! The crisp morning air stimulates my circulation. However, a game of football in the autumn really gets my heart pumping. This time of year gives me the opportunity to cheer for my beloved Washington Redskins. Coach Gibbs was on the radio last week commenting on how important I am as a fan to the success of the team. (O.K., he did not mention my name!) But, I am glad I make a difference. With last week's victory over Seattle, we are starting the season 3-0. "Hail to the Redskins!"

Knowing that someone is cheering for you is important to the human spirit. During our years living in Budapest, Hungary we met and knew many refugees. For some refugees, support systems are non-existent - families are dispersed, friends are gone and the familiarity of homeland is but a dream. No one is present to cheer for them. In other words, encouragement is missing, lost in the sad events of their lives.

The writer of the book of Hebrews understood this need for support when he wrote,

"But encourage one another daily. . . " (Hebrews 3:13 NIV)

Encouraging others can be a part of any interaction. It may be a word spoken, a hand on a shoulder, a prayer together, or a reminder that God cares.

Surely there is someone who needs encouragement from us. We can make a difference. Join me in "cheering someone on" this week.

Sharing the journey with you,