2 Corinthians 9:7 NIV
Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give,... for God loves a cheerful giver."
I was standing at the deli counter talking to Carolyn, a co-worker, when Margo approached. She put her arm around my shoulder, smiled and announced to Carolyn, "She's a good friend; she really helped me out this past year."
I knew what she was referring to. Over a year ago Margo had started working at the grocery store where I am employed. I worked in the deli and she in the kitchen. She had a constant smile and a bubbly personality that stood out. She also was bald, which got everyone talking and wondering why she would choose to look like that. I on the other hand don't like to assume anything. Through conversations with Margo on lunch breaks I really got to know her. I learned her hair loss was a result of a treatment she'd received years earlier. There was a medical solution to regain her hair but the insurance wouldn't cover it. Well, so much for gossip!
Several months later I noticed Margo wasn't smiling and seemed to be stressed. During one of our conversations she revealed she was having some financial problems. She was even having a hard time putting a meal on the table. I remember the compassion God layed on my heart at that time. My finances weren't great but I decided I could help in a small way. I noticed the 8 piece chicken meal was on special. I paid for the chicken and gave her the receipt so she could take it with her when she left work. You would have thought I'd given her a $1000.00 by her reaction. She was overjoyed.
Here it was a year later and she was still expressing gratitude. Who would have thought that this one small gesture of giving would have made such an impact. We don't always know how God can use us if we allow Him to fill our hearts with compassion. It can be a word of encouragement, a card, service or even "just a box of chicken."
Colossians 3:12 NIV
Therefore as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."
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3 comments:
What a wonderful testimony to how God uses us in large ways and in small.
What a wonderful story Marie. We never know what act of kindness will impact someone, and how God will use it.
Doesn't it feel wonderful to be a vessel for God? Though it may seem like a small thing, when a person is in need it means a great deal. I'm inspired! Have a great day.
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