A Different Kind of Give and Take

In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35

Last Thursday we were ringing bells for the Salvation Army at the Walmart in Adrian. It was an eye opening experience in that the vast majority of people walked in and out of the store without donating to the ministry of the Salvation Army. However, it was encouraging to see a number of parents who would give their children money to put in the red kettle. They were impressing upon their children the importance of giving to others. At one point, there was a cute little dark headed and dark complected girl who could barely reach the top of the kettle to deposit her money, but the expression on her face reflected the spirit of giving.  Capturing that moment would make a great poster for the Salvation Army with the title, "Teaching to Give". 

On the other side of the experience of giving was one of taking.  About half way through our time of ringing the bells, a gentleman came out of the store with several bags full of clothes and various items. In a split second, a teenage boy walked up to the man and grabbed as many of the parcels as he could, leaving some scattered on the pavement, and immediately ran before anyone could respond.  The shocked gentleman made a feeble effort to pursue the assailant but to no avail. The police were called to the scene but too late to apprehend the perpetrator. This was all done in broad daylight. 

Obviously there is a great contrast in the two examples. Who do you think is going to be the most blessed:  those who gave or the one who took?

The very next day we left for Kentucky to help our son Roger prepare for a move to California where he has accepted another position with Nestle.  This transition will be an adjustment, but we are excited about the opportunities that await him. His last day for work in Kentucky is December 28th, and he begins his new position in Modesto, CA on January 7th. 

As you prepare for Christmas may your hearts be filled with much joy and peace, and may all your red kettles be filled to the full.

Blessings and Encouragement,

Paul, Gail, Patsy, and Penny