“Those of us who are strong and able in the faith need to step in and lend a hand to those who falter, and not just do what is most convenient for us. Strength is for service, not status. Each one of us needs to look after the good of the people around us, asking ourselves, ‘How can I help?’” (Romans 15:1-2, MSG).

            Following a debilitating stroke in 1919, President Woodrow Wilson found himself bedridden. Yet rather than encouraging him to resign, Edith took on a number of his duties herself. From the time of his stroke until the end of his term in 1921, Edith was the only connection between her husband and government officials. She was the person through whom all presidential matters were filtered. Though Edith did not make any crucial decisions herself, she was accused of running the country in Wilson’s absence.

            Edith Wilson is a prime example of the idiom that behind every great man stands a great woman. Greatness is never achieved alone. Our accomplishments are always the result of the support and contributions from others. Yes, it takes teamwork to make the dream work.

            Like Edith Wilson, we must ask ourselves the important question, “How can I help?” As followers of Jesus, we have been saved through the sacrifice of Christ to be sent as angels of mercy into the world. In the words of Paul above, we have been strengthened by God to step in and lend a hand to those who falter.

            Sadly, many people believe that concern for the unfortunate is a pathway to socialism and compassion for those in need is a form of weakness. And while an overreliance on the assistance of others can hinder individual empowerment and growth, Christians have a moral responsibility to uplift and support those who are vulnerable or disadvantaged. Lending a hand up to someone who has been knocked down contributes to a more equitable and stable society.

            While few of us will rise to the office of First Lady, our benevolences will never go unnoticed. The One who gave his own life to save ours is watching with approving eyes. What you do for the least of these will go a long way toward making a better world for everyone.