Red Flags

It is important to be in tune with others and be aware of any signs of distress, abuse, neglect, or depression. Red flags can be a silent warning of something worse to come. If we are vigilant and catch things early, we could get them the help they need or possibly save a life.

Many times we will go throughout our day unaware of what’s going on in other people’s lives. They become a blur as we busily rush past them on the way to work, school, or an event. In sizable crowds, the faces are unknown and they seem to be like a backdrop to our scene. Even smaller groups can be surface level conversations filled with fronts and facades and simple small talk.

But if we sharpen our keen sense of awareness, we can observe a crowd and notice flags of danger. How do they interact with others? How do they dress? Are they motivated to learn and grow, or is there something holding them back from abundant living?

We can alert professionals when we recognize warning signs. If we are untrained, then our duty is simply to report anything out of the ordinary or that seems suspicious. That way, we can launch positive change. Then, we step aside so the experts can come in and handle it for maximum protection for the victims.

Some suffer from abuse, neglect or depression. We need to approach them differently than most others. We can intervene to help them in their darkest moments and lead them to healing, comfort, and grace.

“Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:1-2

“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully realized. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.” Hebrews 6:10-12

“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” Matthew 25:35-40

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