Today is Wednesday, January 28th, 2009; Karen's Korner #1498
I have been reading a small coffee table book titled "Random Acts of Kindness". (Several exerpts from the book on Monday, January 26, Karen's Korner #1496 - www.karens-korner.com ). Most of us are either givers or receivers of these random acts of kindness.
It made me think of a kindness which Jim received years ago from a New York Salvation Army:
He tells the story of being in the Army, taking training in New Jersey. One Sunday late afternoon while he was in New York doing some exploring and seeing the sights, someone stole his billfold.
Not only was Jim left without money, he had no ready identification. A New York native suggested he ask for help at a Salvation Army location nearby, which he did.
The Salvation Army worker walked with him to a bus station to buy his bus ticket back to the Army base. (Jim always believed that was to assure that their money was used for what he told he needed.). The volunteer also gave Jim several dollars for something to eat on the ride.
As Jim turned to thank the Salvation Army person, he asked how he could pay them back.
"Just put some money in a Salvation Army kettle next time you see one," was the response.
That was forty some years ago.
Lots of kettles later, Jim continues to repay the kindness done to him.
Dear Father in Heaven, thank You that You have put into place people and organizations to be Your hands and feet in our world. Thank You that sometimes they become 'You, with skin on', that we can see and touch. Thank You for so many people in my world who do that for me; help me to be Your Servant to others; it helps me and others believe You! In Jesus Name, Amen.
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