Everyone has a story

Good morning everyone,

Our theme for this month: “Savor the moment”

Our Bible verse for today: “And be kind and compassionate to one another …” Ephesians 4:32 (CSB)

Our thought for today: “Everyone has a story”

This morning, I want to continue our story from yesterday about my encounter (or lack of encounter) with that unemployed father who was simply looking for a little help to feed his three children. Impatiently brushing him off as I did was thoughtless on my part. I should have at least taken a moment to read his sign and hear his story.

The truth is there is always a story that goes with the person and their situation. There was a reason (a good reason) that young man was standing outside my truck window holding a cardboard sign. And he isn’t unique. Everybody has a story. Everyone is dealing with something. And many times there is a good reason the person needs help.

Granted, there are many scams out there as well. I once knew a man who for a time had voluntarily lived in a tent in a homeless encampment because, by his own admission, he enjoyed the freedom and the complete lack of responsibility that lifestyle offered. He also told me that he had no problem getting money for food, cigarettes, and alcohol because “Each day I would stand on a busy corner with a cardboard sign and wait for people to stop and give me money. You would be amazed at how much money you can make in just a few hours of holding a sign.”

So, there is that. And therefore, we do have to be discerning. But to be discerning, and for the Holy Spirit to give us insight into a situation so we can make an accurate assessment of it, requires time and attention. We must slow down and invest a little time so we can engage with the person (which is something I did not do with that young father in the parking lot). This too amounts to savoring the moment and doing so may very well change how we see things. It may also change how we see people.

The writer of the letter to the Hebrews reminds us in Hebrews 13:2, “Don’t neglect to show hospitality, for by doing this some have welcomed angels as guests without knowing it.” In Matthew 25:35-36;40 Jesus said, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat; I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink; I was a stranger and you took me in; I was naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you took care of me; I was a prisoner and you visited me … Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

I encourage you to give people a little time and attention, hear their story, and then be kind and compassionate.

God bless,
Pastor Jim

(If you like what you are reading in these daily devotionals and if you would like more content from Oak Hill Baptist Church, join us on Sundays at 10:00 – in-person if you are nearby or, if you are geographically distant or if you just can’t make it, online at www.YouTube.com/@oakhillbaptistcrossville

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