Something to Offer

Yesterday, I told a story about Mother Teresa. Today I share with you a story of a saint closer to home.

One freezing cold January morning, I was helping out in a homeless shelter with a young student named Chris. Chris was taking coffee outside to fill the cups of those who were waiting. An hour or so into it, he came back inside without his shoes on. Everybody was asking him, “So where are your shoes, Chris?” Chris answered, “There is an elderly man outside on this freezing cold January morning who didn’t have any shoes. He asked whether the shelter had any in size 11, but they don’t. Well, I wear size 11, and I got to thinking about all the pairs I have at home in my closet. So, I just took off my shoes and gave them to him.”

At first, we all thought Chris was nuts! He would have to go home in the cold, barefoot. However, on reflection, his act was inspiring. His personal faith compelled him to care, to give, and not to judge.

We can’t all be Mother Teresa, and we can’t all give the shoes off our feet. But, if we stop and think about it, each and every one of us can show compassion and grace to those in need. Each and every one of us does have something to offer.

Let us pray: Help us to see the need around us, O God. And, give us the courage and creativity to meet that need – if not in the moment, at least in reflection. Compassionate God, it is truly amazing when we consider how generosity changes the world around us, and how it changes the world within us. It is inspiring to see! Help us today to move from self-centered thoughts to self-giving actions. As we do, may we discover deeper joy and meaning, and hope; through Jesus Christ. Amen.