“If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right.” -James 2:8
It is cold in Oklahoma. Each year, we have a few days of cold, snow, and ice. If you are not a fan of this weather, remember the words of Oklahoma’s own Will Rogers, “If you don’t like the weather, just wait a minute.” In just a few days, the sun will return, the temperatures will rise, and the snow and ice will melt.
The rapid weather fluctuation is different in other parts of our country. Many of our northern states get cold and stay cold. When the snow and ice fall, it remains for long periods of time. The average temperature in Fargo, North Dakota, is 24 degrees. The average snowfall in Cleveland, Ohio, this month is 18”. When you live up north, it is necessary to have the proper equipment to stay warm and keep your driveway clear.
Jimmie Sinatra lives in Lakewood, Ohio, just outside of Cleveland. When Jimmie moved to his neighborhood in Lakewood, he purchased a snowblower to keep his driveway and sidewalk clear. The first day Jimmie went out to clear his property, he realized his neighbor needed help. He pushed his machine over and cleared their driveway. When he finished with one neighbor, he moved to the next. Jimmie cleared several driveways that first day. When he went back home, his wife asked him what he was doing outside. Jimmie told her, “I like to help my neighbors; it makes me feel good.”
Since 1995, Jimmie has been clearing his neighborhood driveway and sidewalks. Jimmie is now 82 and known to his neighbors as “The Snowman of Woodward Ave.” When the snow falls, Jimmie puts on his jacket and hat, gets his gas can, and takes his snowblower up and down the street. Sometimes, his neighbors offer him money for this service, but Jimmie refuses. He simply wants to be a good neighbor.
I am glad the snow melts quickly in Oklahoma, but Jimmie’s actions translate no matter the climate. We all have gifts to share that can help our neighbors. When we give our time and talent, we can bless others. Jimmie also reminds us that when we are committed to serving our community, we are blessed, too. It is essential to keep your driveway clear, but all the more, it is important to use your gifts to love your neighbor. This is the commandment from the One who first loved us.
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
