Making the World a Better Place part 1
I have a suggestion that, if put into practice by each person reading these words, will make the world a better place- and more. Hear me out…
More Blessed to Give?
It has been my experience that having an intellectual understanding of one of Jesus’ teachings and having a deep conviction about that same teaching can differ greatly. Often, it is not until I try it out and see the results, usually over time, that I begin to truly internalize the real wisdom and truth of Jesus’ words.
For example, Jesus told us that it is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35).
Most of us have known this phrase since we were young. It’s one of the first Bible concepts that we teach our children, especially when we want them to share something with a good attitude. Surely, I used that tactic a time or two over the years. Nevertheless, it took me well into adulthood to move this teaching from my ‘head’ to my ‘heart’. Apparently, I didn’t really understand or believe Jesus when He assured me that it is more blessed to give than to receive.
Now, as I think back to the times when I have felt the most warmth of heart and joy, they tend to have a common theme—giving. The three encounters below stand out as examples of those that have worked to solidify God’s teaching about giving in the Bible. They also are some of the highlights of my walk with Jesus because I felt His love and encouragement is a unique way.
CVS Lady
As I prayed on my drive to work, I specifically asked God to lead me to someone that I could help that day. As I glanced at the drug store on the corner, I remembered that I was out of allergy medication and decided to stop even though I would be a little late to work. I quickly walked to the back of the store thinking that I would be the only customer at the pharmacy. There was an elderly woman at the counter talking to the cashier. I was already feeling impatient and thinking, “Oh great, this is going to take a while.” I stood there for a minute or two, thinking about my ever-growing to do list at work, before I started listening to the conversation at the counter.
“What does this one do? Does he really need it?” She was clearly concerned and I was drawn into the conversation, wondering what was happening.
“I don’t know which one to get. Is one of these more important?”
I already liked her.
“Your husband’s doctor has prescribed both medications it is important that he take both.” the pharmacist explained.
“I don’t have enough money for both of them.” She looked worried.
The employees looked back at her apologetically, offering no solution.
I decided to get involved, “How much more money do you need to get both?” She turned around, surprised to find someone behind her.
“Five dollars.”
I reached in my purse and handed her the money, slightly worried that she would be unwilling to accept it.
Making sure that I didn’t mind, she smiled and thanked me. “Oh thank you dear, oh thank you so much!”
“It is really no problem at all, I am happy to do it.” I assured her.
She thanked me a few more times before she left. She was so endearing that I wanted to adopt her. The young lady behind the counter was surprised at my offer, “that was really nice of you.”
Jesus is Right!
Five dollars. It seemed like nothing to me in that moment. It was, however, the solution to a very big problem for the woman who was trying to choose which medication to buy for her husband’s treatment.
The opportunity to do a small thing to help that sweet woman is one of the highlights of my life. No kidding. The cost to me was negligible when compared to what I received in return. I felt like the one blessed and encouraged by God in that exchange. I find myself smiling right now, as I do every time I think of her.
read about the man who wept on my porch in Making the World a Better Place part 2...