Wed, Aug 9, 2017
Bible reading: Acts 9:36-42
Memory Verse: Stop neglecting to show hospitality to strangers, for by showing hospitality some have had angels as their guests without being aware of it. Hebrews 13:2 (ISV)
An 18-year-old student was struggling to pay his fees. He was an orphan, and not knowing where to turn for money, he came up with a bright idea. A friend and himself decided to host a musical concert on campus to raise money for their education. They reached out to the great pianist Ignacy J. Paderewski. His manager demanded a guaranteed fee of $2000 for the piano recital. A deal was struck and the boys began to work to make the concert a success.
The big day arrived. Paderewski performed at Stanford. But unfortunately, they had not managed to sell enough tickets. The total collection was only $1600. Disappointed, they went to Paderewski and explained their plight. They gave him the entire $1600, plus a cheque for the balance $400.
They promised to honour the cheque as soon as possible. “No,” said Paderewski. “This is not acceptable.” He tore up the cheque, returned the $1600 and told the two boys: “Here’s the $1600. Please deduct whatever expenses you have incurred. Keep the money you need for your fees. And just give me whatever is left”. The boys were surprised, and thanked him profusely. That’s a heart of kindness!
Learn to help strangers. Some of us think “If I help them, what would happen to me?” The truly great people think, “If I don’t help them, what will happen to them?” They don’t do it expecting something in return. They do it because they feel it’s the right thing to do.
Quote: Kindness could be sacrificial but it sure gladdens the heart.
Prophetic Word: Sudden help shall arise for you from Zion, in Jesus name.
Prayer Focus
- Oh Lord, give me a heart of kindness, in Jesus name.
- I overturn the consequences of any wicked action of mine, by the mercies of God, in Jesus name.
- Lord, give me a heart of love and kindness, in Jesus name.
- I receive the grace to spend and be spent in my generation, in Jesus name.
- I shall be a plus to my generation in Jesus name.