Inspired

so tonight, I am inspired to blog. i'm not sure if it is because my roommates are bloggers and everyone under our roof is currently working on their blogs, or if lately I have just felt the need to write.
everyone needs some inspiration to do or be something, and sometimes you just have to go for it whatever it is.
this past weekend I was encouraged during one of my runs about my job and the impact the people I work with have had on my life in the past year and a half of working with them.  I am encouraged and inspired by each of them in different ways daily. right now, I am inspired by the work and vision of my boss and the organization Hope Smiles and the difference and impact it is making in our community...and i'm reminded that ultimately it is the work of God in the hearts of people. as kennedy and I ran this past weekend through some not great areas of Chattanooga, my heart was full of hope and love for the homeless people we saw as we were passing them by. before being involved with the great work of Hope Smiles, I would never have made eye contact with the people sitting on sidewalks holding up signs needing money, or people waiting at the bus stop who looked hopeless and in despair, or the old man sitting under the bridge to get out of the heat and sun. but God has grabbed my attention in remembering His love for me and ultimately for His people and creation...and how I ought to give that love to others. how does this apply now to me? it means remembering that daily we have opportunities to love and serve the people around us. it means that we need to encourage one another in this as believers. we need each other to lean on and keep accountable for our words, thoughts, and actions towards others. to take the time out of a minute of our busy days to love on someone or pray for someone.
God opens our eyes when we are least looking for Him to. He works in our hearts in the smallest of ways, but in those small ways, we can make a world of difference.
"And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity". Colossians 3:14