Philippians 2:14-16
Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may be innocent and pure as God’s perfect children, who live in a world of corrupt and sinful people. You must shine among them like stars lighting the sky, as you offer them the message of life. If you do so, I shall have reason to be proud of you on the day of Christ, because it will show that all my effort and work have not been wasted. Philippians 2:14-16 (GNT)
You must shine among them like stars lighting the sky, as you offer them the message of life. That really stood out to me. Imagine what God’s creation would be like if we lived that one every day. I am going to share a story showing what meaning two acts of kindness can do for lives.
One day a man saw a lady standing by the side of the road but in need of help. Her name was Linda. He pulled up in front of her Mercedes and got out. As he approached her with a smile on his face he could see that she looked worried. He said, “Don’t worry, ma’am, I am here to help you. My name is Bill Anderson and I am just here to help you. Why don’t you sit in the car where it is warm and out of the rain while I change your tire.”
Bill got the jack and spare tire out, skinned his knuckles a time or two and dirtied himself a bit but soon finished the tire change. Then Linda told Bill she was from St. Louis and just passing through. She wanted to pay but Bill said absolutely not. He told her that if she really wanted to pay him she should pay it forward the next time she saw someone in need and then remember what he had done for her. It had been a depressing day for him with his financial struggles but as she drove off he felt really good.
A few miles down the road Linda stopped at a cafe for some breakfast. It was a bit dingy but she was hungry after the ordeal and wanted some food. The waitress came over and brought a dry towel so Linda could dry her hair. Linda noticed the waitress was very pregnant and looked quite tired but never let the strain and aches change her beautiful attitude. Linda wondered how someone in such a situation could be so kind and giving.
After Linda finished her meal she paid with a $100 dollar bill. The waitress went to get change but when she got back Linda was gone. The waitress wondered where she had gone and then noticed a message on the napkin. Linda had tears in her eyes when she saw what was written on the napkin: “You don’t owe me anything. Somebody just helped me like I hope I am helping you. If you really want to pay me back, here is what you do: Do not let the chain of love end with you.” Under the napkin were four more $100 dollar bills.
That evening on the way home the waitress couldn’t wait to tell her husband how their need for help with their financial problems had been answered. Her husband's name just happened to be Bill Anderson.
Questions for Reflection:
- How might we become a shining star on God’s creation?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, please help us to remember how good it feels when we are helping others and making your creation better. In Jesus' name, we pray. AMEN
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