Recently, I took a trip down memory lane and went to see ‘Won’t You Be My Neighbor?’, a documentary about Fred Rogers and the TV show, ‘Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood.’ I found myself softly singing along with Mr. Rogers, and I heard others in the audience doing the same. I confess, there were also muffled sniffles. Mostly mine.

The documentary shared a story from Mr. Rogers’ childhood. As a boy, he would see something on the news that frightened him and would go to his mom with his fears.

“My mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’ To this day, especially in times of disaster, I remember my mother’s words, and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers — so many caring people in this world.”

This documentary reminded me that there is still goodness in this world. The 24/7 news media tends to highlight the bad. We are barraged by the same horrifying stories over and over throughout the day. It seems there is no hope.

Where are the helpers?

Helpers are found in all walks of life. It’s easy to overlook helpers because they aren’t all splashy, larger-than-life people. Many times, a helper is the quiet, humble, unassuming person that you walk by without a second glance.

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA – March 20, 2006: University students on Spring Break remove debris from an abandoned house in the Lower Ninth Ward. The Lower Ninth Ward was devastated by the storm and remains a shadow of its former self.

After Hurricane Harvey hit Texas, there were scores of helpers. A group of boat owners, nicknamed the Cajun Navy, banded together to help with rescue efforts. Neighbors formed a human chain, standing in the water, to assist a woman in labor. Volunteers cooked, served meals and gave out water.

Sometimes we refer to helpers as good Samaritans. The definition of a good Samaritan is a person who selflessly helps others, especially those in distress.

The term good Samaritan comes from the Bible. A lawyer asked Jesus, “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus replied with a story about a Samaritan who saw a wounded man lying on the side of the road. Two other men had walked by and ignored the hurt man, but the good Samaritan stopped to bind his wounds and give assistance.

I’ve decided to concentrate on finding the helpers. To look for the good in people. People who love their neighbors. I’m tired of focusing on the bad.

However, I’m ashamed to admit how often I’ve missed the chance to be a helper. How many times have I passed someone in need and walked on? Have I hidden behind my cell phone rather than stop and give someone a hand? Have I forgotten Jesus’ command to “love your neighbor as yourself?” (Luke 10:27 NIV)

So, I encourage you to join me in looking for the helpers. Also, let’s stop and examine our own hearts. Consider these questions:

Am I a helper?

Is my schedule more important than helping someone in need?

When I post or comment on Facebook and Instagram am I posting something inflammatory – or helpful?

Do I love my neighbor?

Being a helper doesn’t always demand a grand gesture. Sometimes it’s as simple as a kind word, helping a mom with preschoolers load her groceries or paying for a stranger’s coffee. Small acts of kindness can make a significant impact in the life of a hurting person.

Make Mr. Rogers proud.

Look for the helpers.

Better yet, make Jesus proud.

Be a helper.