For many of us, giving blood can be a nightmare: the needles, the smell, feeling light-headed — even though we know it is for a good cause. At the age of 14, after a significant chest surgery, James Harrison’s life was saved through blood transfusions. After that, he vowed to give his own blood to help others. However, that was just the beginning!

A few years after James began donating blood, doctors discovered that his blood was extra special. According to Jemma Falkenmire, of the Australian Red Cross Blood Service: “Every bag of blood is precious, but James’ blood is particularly extraordinary. His blood is actually used to make a life-saving medication, given to moms whose blood is at risk of attacking their unborn babies.” Jemma also explained that “in Australia, up until about 1967, there were literally thousands of babies dying each year, doctors didn’t know why, and it was awful. . . . Australia was one of the first countries to discover a blood donor with this antibody, so it was quite revolutionary at the time.”

A rare commitment

Now that Harrison has given blood nearly every week for sixty years he can retire knowing he has made a significant impact on the lives of many families. How big of an impact? Experts estimate that Harrison alone has saved around 2.4 million babies. Obviously, Harrison endured quite a bit over the course of sixty years as he continued to give blood. Nevertheless, he did so for the good of others.

Faith is not a seasonal sport

Endurance is rarely so visibly impressive. Often it simply means doing the right thing or staying true to our word over a long period of time. Our commitments matter, and none matters more than our faithfulness to God. Just like Harrison’s enduring commitment to blood donations, we can consistently give our time, energy, and love to God to help change the world for good. 

Question of the day: What journey has God called you to endure to help bring about good in this world?
Focal scriptures: Romans 8:18-28; Hebrews 12:1-3; Numbers 11:10-17

For a complete lesson on this topic visit LinC.