by Stephanie Conkright
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. -Galatians 6:9-10
I recently spent a few days at Joni and Friends camp for families with children with special needs. As I watched the parents, I was humbled by how patiently they loved on their children. But, equally significant was how the parents encouraged one another. I happened to eavesdrop on a conversation between a father of a 6-year-old and the mother of a 24-year-old. They were in a similar situation. The mother explained various treatments and recommendations and the father clearly appreciated her advice. As I pondered this afterward, I wondered if he also looked at her son and struggled with the reality that, despite all these treatments, her son was still totally dependent on her for everything. Perhaps this was a glimpse into the future for his family.
But here’s the amazing encouragement God showed me. Has this dear mom ever become weary of doing good for her son? Of course she has, during long days of changing, bathing, and transferring from wheelchair to bed. But, she has not become weary in her fierce devotion and advocacy for her son. How has she not grown weary? Because she loves him. This is such a clear picture of God’s love for us. He does not grow weary in loving us and doing good to us. Even when circumstances are hard, and we don’t get the miracles we hope for he is still for us.
The Bible is replete with references to harvest, especially as a metaphor for saving souls. However, according to Galatians, the harvest is not just about winning souls, we are also to do good to those who belong to the family of believers. So, what might that harvest look like?
This mother exuded love, joy, and positivity even in difficult circumstances. I wondered if this was a greater encouragement to the young father than any specific recommendations. She took the opportunity to do good to other members of the family of believers. She refused to grow weary in doing good, both to her son and to another struggling parent, and at the proper time, she will reap a harvest. For her son, that harvest might have to wait until heaven, when he will dance unencumbered in joy before the Lord.
