There seems to be a deep desire inside us. Something calling us to do good things. As Paul points out in Romans 7, this desire to do good is at war with the desire of the flesh to do evil. But, occasionally, especially during times of crisis and suffering, the desire to do good wins out.

We have all heard and read stories from the great depression, and the Great War, of courageous individuals who, in spite of fear, misery, and desperation, performed heroic acts of kindness and compassion to relieve human suffering.

The events of and in the aftermath of 9/11 we were inspired by acts of bravery and sacrifice. The images of suffering and pain compelled us to be nicer, to be kinder, and to be more compassionate to our fellow man. (Of course, in some it also produced an attitude of, "Let's go bomb them suckers!" But, that would be another discussion for another time.) We saw, we read, and we heard of men and women who risked, and some who even sacrificed, their own lives so that others could live.

Many who are reading this traveled to southern Mississippi and Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina to clean, rebuild, and restore hope to the homeless, helpless, and hopeless.

We are experiencing it again as we see the images of enormous loss of life and property created by the earthquake in Haiti. Thanks to our technical capabilities millions of dollars were donated immediately following the quake by text messaging the word "Haiti" to 90999. The entertainment community that is so often criticized for the self-indulgent and egocentric lifestyle raised $57 million dollars in only a few hours with the Hope For Haiti broadcast on most of the major networks. All over our community Christian artists have held concerts and special events with all donations going to help the people in Haiti. News reports have highlighted stories of small children who hear about the suffering children and want to give their allowance to help the children in Haiti.

In my own life there have been untold occasions where people have offered to help, insisted on helping, and come to my aid in lovingly and creative ways. Where would I be now had it not been for those "do-gooders?"

Where did this desire to do good come from? Why do we have such heart pain when we witness a natural disaster, tragedy, and human suffering? What is it that causes the creative juices to flow as we search for ways to help?

The answer may be found in God's word:

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10, NIV)

God planned for us to do good things and to live as he has always wanted us to live. That's why he sent Christ to make us what we are. (Ephesians 2:10, CEV)

So, here's the task for this week: What good thing are you going to do?

When the good intention to do something good pops into your head, don't ignore it. Do it! When the impulse strikes, let it happen. When you feel God nudging you, trust the nudge, and follow it. Do something good! You were created to do good things.

Enjoy doing good things this week.

Tom