A devotion by Stephanie Ordaz, Parent Aide, Yuma

We’ve continued to ask different people to tell us about their “why” in their ministry area, today we hear about parent aide from Stephanie Ordaz.

Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. – Galatians 6:2

Have you ever seen an elderly person loading their heavy groceries into the trunk of their car and heard that voice that tells you, “Help them out”? I always wondered why this little voice popped into my head, and why I felt such a sense of accomplishment after I helped. Then it came to me. My Lord was asking me to carry the burdens of that elderly person because they clearly could use the help.

I like to think of my clients as elderly people with heavy bags of groceries that they need help carrying. Our clients are in need of help, but are sometimes too proud to ask for it. Think of the heavy burdens that boggle down our clients as those grocery bags, filled with different burdens. Some bags have trauma, some have pain, abuse, hurt, neglect, etc. As good stewards, God calls upon us to help ease the burdens of our brothers and sisters in Christ. Our Lord recognizes that we are taking on those burdens and sharing them with our clients.

When people ask me “Why” I do what I do, I know it is because it is my calling. Growing up I had so many career plans and paths that were nowhere near where I am right now. I had no idea I wanted to work with families in need of someone carrying and sharing their burdens or “bags of groceries,” but here I am. At times it is hard to make sense of why I love to ease my clients’ struggles and burdens, but I remember that it is because the Lord has chosen this for me. So, the next time you see an elderly person struggling with heavy grocery bags, help! God is with you and will carry your own grocery bags.