I heard someone say recently, "What we need nowadays is people with good character."

What is good character? Good morals? A firm handshake and a steady look in the eye?

Tina has good character. She's a little rough around the edges —smokes Newport cigarettes, has faded tattoos, and can slip into colorful combinations of language that would make a sailor blush. But she lives a life committed to using every resource and gift at her disposal for the good of others.

Recently a young mom in the community died, leaving behind three young boys in the custody of their 18-year-old sister. These boys are fending for themselves in so many ways. Tina noticed them and began bringing them food and clothing. She takes the boys to a young men's mentoring program at church, and when her immediate family has a birthday party or somewhere fun to go, she includes the boys as if they are her own. I think character begins with emptying oneself for others.

David Brooks, who wrote a book on character, said in an interview: "People who really have character make deep, unshakable connections to something outside of themselves." Character involves a commitment to service and community, outside of oneself. In Jesus' parable of the good Samaritan, for example, that is extended to include enemies (Luke 10:29-37).

How might we empty ourselves for others today?