In 1984 the newspapers told of the plight of a child in Mexico City. The 4-year-old boy had been orphaned and severely burned in a gas explosion that took the lives of 500 people. Millions saw the story and probably quickly forgot about it. But one woman in New York City was deeply moved and couldn't get the little boy off her mind.

This woman's concern led to efforts to find the boy, followed by 2 years of medical assistance, gifts, visits, and finally adoption proceedings. He had someone who loved him, someone who cared so much that she gave herself to him. I'd say she was one in a million!

That story brings to mind the patriarch Job. We usually think of him as a righteous man who suffered. But there was much more about him that made it possible for the Lord to say, "There is none like him on the earth." In chapters 29-31 of Job, we get a more complete picture of the man. He proved his heart for God by reaching out to others. He was "one in a million" to orphans, widows, and other oppressed persons (29:12-17; 31:16-22).

Father, please give us a heart that reaches out to others. May we stand out as men and women who extend Your compassion and love to people in need.  — Mart De Haan