Have I Done Any Good

I’ve long been a fan of the hymn "Have I Done Any Good?" that we sing at church. This year it feels even more important.

Have I done any good in the world today?
Have I helped anyone in need?
Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad?
If not, I have failed indeed.
Has anyone’s burden been lighter today
Because I was willing to share?
Have the sick and the weary been helped on their way?
When they needed my help was I there?

I am a strong believer in service to others. Yes, you feel good afterwards, and others get help that they can use, but there are times where it is more than all of that combined. I’ve watched service change the hearts of people, those that are giving and those that are receiving.

There are chances for work all around just now,
Opportunities right in our way.
Do not let them pass by, saying, “Sometime I’ll try,”
But go and do something today.
’Tis noble of man to work and to give;
Love’s labor has merit alone.
Only he who does something helps others to live.
To God each good work will be known.

If one or two people coming together to serve is good, having a large group assemble for the purpose of serving others can be amazing. There is a special power in a multitude of individuals united in a single good cause. I highly recommend trying it.

Then wake up and do something more
Than dream of your mansion above.
Doing good is a pleasure, a joy beyond measure,
A blessing of duty and love.

In the middle of a global pandemic service to others isn’t always the same as before. So be creative, find a new way to do some good.