Some acts of humanity just blow me away. It still warms my heart to know that there are appreciative and kind-hearted people in this world. Amen? Some acts of kindness are never forgotten.
I remember the time when I was a brand new single mom in Texas, with a two and a four year old. My former Sunday School teachers in Texas (Larry and Melinda Ewing, whom I had not seen in 10 years) flew me to their home for the weekend to minister and love on me. I cried the entire weekend by the touch of their gentle hands. Today, I'll bet that Larry and Melinda have totally forgotten about that act of kindness some 30 years ago.
We had a call to our office a few weeks ago from a couple (donors to our ministry) that reminded me of the Ewings. Years ago, the couple had given a single mother they barely knew $500 to help with various needs. It was a gift -- NOT to be paid back. Then, out of nowhere, they received a cashier’s check from this former single mom saying, “You helped me 12 years ago, and I’ve never forgotten it. I’ve been saving the money to give it back to you. So here’s $500 – the amount you originally gave me. Your generosity will never be forgotten. Please pass this financial blessing on to another charity.” And, of course, they selected Arise Ministries.
When I picked up the check at their house, I felt like framing it! I was reminded of Jesus’ words in Revelation 22:12 – And behold, I am coming imminently and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done.
“According to?” – I wonder what kind of reward will be given for someone – like this single mother – who saved 11¢ a day for 12 years to pay it forward.
Sometimes when we think of Jesus coming back with His bag overflowing with rewards, we instantly feel guilty, like we have not done enough. (Friend, NONE of us have!) Yet, it’s not the BIG things that are noteworthy in Jesus’ eyes. It’s the small things, the 11¢ a day things that add up.
