Commenting on our present Covid-19 circumstances, Jon Bon Jovi is quoted as saying, “You can’t do what you do, you do what you can.” That phrase, “You do what you can” has been bouncing in my mind for the last few days. 

It made me think of some missionaries who served in the early 1800’s.  Adoniram and Ann Judson worked as missionaries to Burma (modern day Myanmar). Their story is worth reading. But the short version reveals that during their first six years of ministry, absolutely no one came to Christ. But they kept doing what they could.

Along the way, Adoniram was imprisoned. Later, his wife and baby died from an illness. It took them 25 years to finish their translation of the Bible into the Burmese language. All total, he faithfully served for 37 years. And by the end of that period of time, historians believe that through their ministry, some 7000 men, women and children came to know the Lord as their personal savior. 

Even in less than ideal conditions, the Judsons just kept doing what they could, and look at what they were able to accomplish for the work of Christ. I am wondering this week what you and I might be able to accomplish if we too, just do what we can.

Some of us can walk our neighborhoods and check in on people. Just because they live in a nice house and appear to have resources doesn’t mean that they are not anxious and need a word of encouragement.

Some of us can make some calls and check on the older folks in our community. Just having someone to talk to is often the best medicine. Some of us can bake some cookies and drop them off at the local fire station with a note of appreciation.

Some of us can write a few letters to military servicemen stuck on base or on a ship. Those words of gratitude for their service will go a long way.

Some of us can give more generously than usual. Food banks, homeless shelters, medical missionaries and churches are all in serious need of resources. Write a check, give online. Make a difference.

And still others of us can make a list of every doctor, nurse and medical provider that we know and start praying for them by name, every single day. (I have 11 on my list.) They definitely need our prayer support.

Let’s not get stymied in our current set of circumstances. Let’s do what we can!

“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus…” Col. 3:17