Philippians 2:4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
All last year, an old friend sent us monthly letters of encouragement. Each letter focused on a particular aspect of our lives he has grown to appreciate over the years. He called them “huggets,” nuggets of insight delivered like an affirming hug. Not surprisingly, his “huggets” have been very encouraging to my husband and me. Who doesn’t appreciate a hug, even a verbal one?
Our friend’s affirming inspiration required time and intentionality. God saw his willingness to move from his world to ours. And he met our friend’s desire to bless us with a unique expression via “huggets.” His heartfelt letters brought comfort, cheer and I admit, some empty tissue boxes.
Paul exhorted the Philippians to consider other people’s interests, not just their own. Most of us, given our fallen nature, don’t naturally think outside our own desires. Yet Paul encourages us toward something higher than the confines of satisfying ourselves. Ironically, the greatest satisfactions in life usually come in putting another’s interests ahead of our own. It’s more blessed to give than receive (Acts 20:35) proves to be more valid than we realize.
I believe God created us to both give and receive “huggets.” Our friend’s letters impacted us, but he, too, found great fulfillment in writing them. Human relationships can be filled with a lot of pain and disappointment. Even best intentions can result in brokenness. God gives us one another in order to participate with him in being the healed as well as the healer.
So maybe this is a good time to consider how God might want you to extend some “huggets” to a fellow traveler. All you need is a willingness to get outside of your own interests. I promise, God will give you the time you think you didn’t have. And provide you with creative ideas you wouldn’t have thought of on your own.
Jesus calls us to imitate him. His humility, his compassion, his selflessness. I can’t help but think “huggets” offer us a great place to start.