Craig Clouston

 The Kindness of Kindness

September 14

He who gives to the poor will lack nothing.

Proverbs 28:27

Jonathan and Gloria’s fiftieth wedding anniversary was fast approaching, but

they hadn’t made plans for a celebration because they couldn’t afford much

more than cards for each other. Deciding finances were just too tight, they

agreed that they would settle for cards. After fifty years together, they didn’t

really need anything else.

Friends in the community found out and set about organizing a secret

fund to rectify the situation. In just two weeks, they raised enough to pay for

reservations for a weekend at Salt Fork Lodge.

The Carringtons would be able to enjoy some much needed time alone,

away from the farm and daily chores. People had taken to the idea with great

enthusiasm! The love within the community was apparent. The fund had grown

so quickly that there was several hundred dollars left over after the reservations

were paid for. The remainder was allotted for dining out, dancing, and a couple

of shows. There would even be enough left over for each to buy a present for

the other!

The day the surprise was unveiled almost the entire community showed

up. They presented their gift to the Carringtons after church the Sunday before

their anniversary. Jonathan’s best man was given the privilege of presenting

them a check for six hundred eighty-seven dollars, a room confirmation num-

ber, and a gas card to cover the fuel for their trip.

Speechless, the Carringtons wiped tears from their eyes as they surveyed

the smiles on the faces of those in attendance.

h

Kindness is an act of love and obedience. When we give unselfishly to those in

need, we fulfill God’s purpose, and it pleases Him. By giving of ourselves we do

God’s work, we become His hands and feet.

We should always be mindful of those who are less fortunate.

Giving helps us remain unselfish, and it focuses our faith and trust where

it should be: on God.

This is one of God’s promises: we will never be in need if we provide for

those who are. He asks and then leaves the kindness up to us.

Prayer

“May You find in me a willingness to always give of

myself, whether it be time or money. Help me be

selfless for Your purpose. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”