Widows in their distress

"Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress..." -James 1:27

I was listening to a podcast one day when this verse came up in the discussion. The host mentioned that we, as Christians, really love this verse, especially the part about orphans. We sponsor starving children from third-world countries, we help out at fundraisers and events to raise money for orphanages, and some people even go to the point of adopting these children and providing them with a safe and loving home. While all of this is wonderful, we do not do very much to care for the widows. Why is that? I have a few ideas, but I am not entirely sure. What I do know is that they do not have easy lives. Think about your great-grandmother (or grandfather, or an elderly person in your church, or the next-door neighbor...). What are a few little things that would make a big difference to this person? It may be as simple as just sitting down and talking with them. Having a simple conversation, listening to their concerns, desires, feelings, etc. and offering some of your own. Or playing a game of cards. Or delivering some groceries. These are not hard things, so why aren't we doing them?

Check out this video, which inspired this post. The Seales are in the process of adopting a little girl from Ethiopia. As part of the adoption process, they participated in a Both Hands Project and made the day of a widow in their community. So cool.