For those of us that believe good deeds will add extra points in heaven, I witnessed a great example last night. I met a friend at her church for an event called Family Promise. I had no idea what it was about and showed up while everyone was having dinner. I noticed that a few of the people were slightly unconventional, but was unaware that these people were homeless. There was a mother and her young daughter having dinner. The child was energetic and beautiful with beads and a black tutu. She ran up and gave me a hug. The thought of this child being homeless was quite disturbing.
My friend had supplied a complete dinner with a delicious assortment of food and dessert. The Family Promise participants must have a job and are allowed to stay at the church for one week. Then they move on to the next volunteer facility. Stewards of the church help sponsor this program by volunteering once a month. Church members use their time, talents and treasure for the love of God and their neighbor.
I am embarrassed to say that I probably am not generous enough to spend the night at church with people I do not know. It also takes time and money to prepare a large meal for a group of people. It was very touching to observe these strangers being taken care of so lovingly.
It was ironic that one of my friends posted this statement on Facebook yesterday. The posting said, "He's got it right. Thanks to Being Liberal for this one."
My Facebook friend does not attend church and would be unaware or skeptical that many church's assist non members facing poverty. While helping my friend clean up, I thought about the ladies' that had slept with the homeless people the night before. The overnight arrangements did not look very comfortable, and there are no shower facilities. As I walked away I imagined that these volunteers would receive a special reward in heaven. They are truly compassionate, loving and have a genuine faith. It must be a God thing that I can call them my friends.
Acts 20:35
English Standard Version (ESV)
35 In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
