“Yes” People (04/22/2026)

Yesterday, I was blessed to be able to work side by side with a group of “Yes” people, you know the kind who when asked to help, say, “Yes.” It’s not that they have nothing else to do; in fact, they are usually the busiest people. It’s not that they don’t know how to say, “No.” We can tell by their joy that they know how to pass on things that won’t add to the journey. They are the ones who know the joy of giving themselves for the love of others. They are the ones who see a need and say, “I can do that.”

We were preparing for a light luncheon for a parish family who were gathered to remember their beloved family member who had passed away. We gathered, donned our aprons, washed our hands, put on plastic gloves and made sandwiches, cleaned fruit, made the coffee, and set up the serving line. We greeted the other generous “Yes” people who meandered in bearing plates of cookies and bars they’d generously offered to provide. We talked among ourselves while we worked. We laughed, we shared, we came to know one another even better. I think we all were ready to leave at the end and go home to put our feet up, but I believe every one of us was glad we had that time together.

We are blessed by the presence of “Yes” people in our lives, in our homes, in our community. We benefit from their generosity; our load is often lightened by their generosity and joy. Each of us can be a “Yes” person in the right moment, in the right setting, under the right conditions. All of us are called to use our time and talent for others.

I recall once while serving for the Diocese of Madison as Director of Pastoral Services, working with a parish to help the leadership and members more fully engage everyone in the mission. Word got out that we were seeking ways to match gifts and needs. A group of homebound individuals sent word that they, too, wanted to be “Yes” people, but didn’t know how. We asked if they would be willing to form and serve as the Parish Prayer Wariors, praying daily for the needs called in by parish members. They took on that task, and they and the parish are still reaping the rewards.

We all have the same number of hours in a day. The LORD doesn’t only ask for a tithe of our treasure to serve others, the LORD asks for a tithe of our time, as well.

As we continue on our journey, let us consider the time that has been given to us, not just the 24 hours of today but also all the days up until now. Let us open our hearts and minds to sharing in gratitude some of the time allotted to us for the glory of God in the service of others.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.