The weather guys are predicting a colder than usual winter. At the same time, we hear snippets about the burgeoning homeless population, due to the economy and housing crisis. Many homes sit empty, lost to foreclosure. A colder than normal winter, a swollen homeless population—and I wonder, what can I do to help?

If you watch Joyce Meyer, you know she’s been preaching The Love Revolution. If we truly love our neighbors, we will reach out to them in crisis. “The entire law is summed up in a single command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Most of us are familiar with this scripture, found in Galations 5:14.

So again I ask myself, what can I do? My husband and I are learning to live on a smaller salary since he lost his job. Can I still do something? I know I can. With God, all things are possible, right? (Matthew 19:26) I want to do something.

Gloves and mittens – I keep thinking about gloves and mittens. I hate to have cold hands! You know the feeling, when your fingers really hurt from the cold, the ache, the stiffness. Why not buy an extra pair and give them to someone in need—each time I go to the store, pick up a pair of gloves or mittens to give away? I am aware of several different ministries to whom I can give these. They will take the gloves to the homeless. Or I can take them myself. How would that feel—to hand someone a pair of warm gloves—someone whose hands are swollen and painful from exposure.

I think of my beautiful grandchildren, who thankfully have shelter and warmth. They have warm coats and mittens. But what if they did not? What if they were homeless, their lives out of control in the deep of winter? I would certainly want someone to be merciful and obedient to God’s call.

God shows His love in many ways. I challenge you—this winter—to follow my example. Buy an extra pair of gloves or mittens and give them to your favorite charity or homeless ministry. Pull out gently used outerwear that you no longer want and give them to someone who needs them. Donate money to buy gloves and mittens to your local church group. Don’t wait for someone else to lead the way, you do something. Show God’s love.