Love in action and in truth

1 John 3

16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. 17 If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?18 Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.

An old batchmate of mine has been sent to prison for the 3rd time on pushing drugs. Twice he was caught in Roxas but the third in Kalibo, hence, he is now being held in Kalibo. 

Everyone was glad and amused when he finally got out last November, just in time for our first ever reunion. He was actually one of those that really put his whole heart into it. 

I got to talk to him a bit during the time we were preparing and he was deadset on never going back to prison again. How he wanted to live his life right for his wife and twin daughters. He was even chosen to lead the prayer during our reunion. Actually, he insisted on doing the prayer. 

A few months after our reunion in December, we heard he got caught in Kalibo. I was sad and worried for him. We heard his family gave up and abandoned him. 

Now he pleads with our classmates to send him food, basic necessities. The worst is he has landed in the hospital two times now in the last two months. 

Logistically, it is a bit difficult with him in Kalibo. We don't know anybody and the penal system in this country is both questionable and shady. 

With him in the hospital again and turning yellow, apparently, on a personal level it seems only a few of us our capable of doing anything. 

I feel for those of our classmates who have chosen to help. I know some of them have limited means but still choose to do so out of the kindness of their heart. 

Reading this verse has come at the right time. Doubts have entered my mind. But I am reminded that the help I give is not from my own personal effort but from God's grace, love and mercy. I am not any different from Michael in God's eyes for we are all sinners. God chooses to love us regardless. 

So, I take steps I know I only have the means to do. It means a bit if a sacrifice on my people's part, too. But then again, not so many people can do this. 

May God guide our steps and block all those that mean to do us harm. He knows our hearts and this is for His glory and perhaps be key to Mike's salvation.