Random and Intentional Acts of Kindness

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In 1941, Sofia Banya, a poor Polish farm woman, found that she did not have enough money to purchase food for her family at the village store. The Jewish shopkeeper, Israel Rubinek, told her to take the food and repay him when she could. This unplanned act of kindness was unheard of in war torn Poland, and Sofia Banya never forgot it.

Two years later, the Nazis rounded up Jewish people in Poland and sent them to concentration camps. Fearing for the life of the shopkeeper Israel Rubbing, Sofia Banya risked her life by hiding Rubinek and his wife in her home for two and a half years.

Decades later, the Rubineks reunited with the woman who sheltered them from the Nazis. The granddaughter of the Rubineks said, “That one act of kindness that my grandfather did to Sofia Banya, affected everything. His small act gave birth to immeasurable love in the heart of Mrs. Banya. She was a poor Polish farmer, terrified for her life, yet she took care of my grandparents, whom she barely knew.”

We never know how a small act of kindness can have ripple effects.

You may have seen the bumper sticker, “Practice Random Acts of Kindness…” I once heard a pastor say that we should also practice “intentional acts of kindness.” Both can produce tremendous ripple effects. This week, may you find a way to practice one of each.

Let us pray: God of Hope, you have called us to be instruments of your love and grace. This week, show us at least one way we can make a difference in your name. Keep our eyes and hearts open we ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.