Friday, October 17, 2014
By: Gwen Hitt
Kindnesses ARE Remembered
Matthew 10:40 Anyone who welcomes you welcomes Me, and anyone who welcomes Me welcomes the One who sent Me.
I had the honor of hearing an inspiring speaker at the conference that I am attending. Although this individual's childhood and teen years were filled with hardships (poverty, neglect, homelessness, abandonment, abuse - both physical and sexual, learning challenges, gang involvement, drug abuse, juvenile jail, thoughts of suicide), he managed to OVERCOME the obstacles that threatened to consume him.
He disclosed that at his lowest point - when he was contemplating ending his life - he REMEMBERED the kindnesses bestowed upon him in THIRD GRADE! His teacher's words and actions from a dozen or so years before prevented him from following through with his plans to take his life --- to end his pain.
What did this teacher do that had such an impact on this person's life? He shared that she lovingly welcomed him into her classroom - into her heart, she encouraged him to NEVER GIVE UP on life - to always STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE. She truly BELIEVED in him.
With guidance from influential mentors, this man ... who had faced so much adversity ... went on to earn a college degree and to dedicate his life to helping troubled youth and adults overcome the negative challenges within their own lives AND to discover the greatness within them.
As I listened to this inspirational person speak, I began to reflect on my interactions with those that God has placed in my path. Are my words and actions powerful enough to change their lives? Do my words surface from the deep recesses of their minds in their darkest moments?
Today's scripture states that when we are kind to others we are actually extending kindness to Jesus ... to God! I am certain that both God and Jesus appreciated the kind efforts of this teacher who had no way of recognizing the impact of her efforts in welcoming a young, troubled student in her classroom ... to demonstrate Jesus' love and compassion in his life.
My challenge to you is to always know that your efforts in reaching out to others with the love of Christ are not in vain. You may not immediately see the fruits of your efforts, but your kind words and loving actions are being imprinted on their hearts ... they are being acknowledged in Heaven. Realize that you may be the only Jesus that others who cross your path ever see.
Dear Lord, Help me to constantly remember that I am Your ambassador. I desire to be the person You want others to see You through ... to be the person that is reflective of Your goodness, Your love, Your mercy.
I thank You Jesus for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life.
Reflection: Do you think God and Jesus feel welcomed by your words, your actions towards others?
