On the Shoulders of GiantsSample

Hands and Feet

Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. -Romans 12:13

Whenever my “spiritual mom” Muriel Miller Branch shares how a chiding from God led her to serve women, I’m reminded that He uses willing vessels like Muriel, a retired middle school librarian, and author. Muriel was strolling through a convenience store one day and heard a young mother yelling at her toddler. Muriel muttered, “Someone needs to teach her to do better.”

As quickly as that declaration filled her spirit, so did God’s response: Why not you?

Muriel reacted by inviting her personal and professional women friends (including me) to help. We joined her in mentoring younger ladies, sharing advice on parenting, finances, relationships, and more.

Muriel named that ministry Women Inspired to Transform (WIT), and for about a decade, we walked alongside her and the dozens she nurtured to wholeness. Her care was similar to the care rendered by the biblical character Dorcas, also known as Tabitha, who was so beloved for her selfless giving that her townspeople successfully pleaded with God’s servant to restore her to life (Acts 9:36–42).

The women in Muriel’s care experienced restoration because of her consistent love, becoming more attentive mothers, reacclimating after prison, learning to set boundaries, and growing closer to God.

“Ma Muriel,” as she became known, reminded us through her obedience that, when we know better, we must pay that wisdom forward. God’s presence can be deeply felt when we become hands and feet that reflect His loving heart.

Stacy Hawkins Adams

God, use me to show Your love to those around me. When encountering others, God, help us to see their needs and be ready to graciously serve them.