My Favorite Gift

Whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith.

I walked into the church sanctuary, excitement running through me. I looked down at my white gown with some disbelief that this day was finally here. My gaze traveled around the room to the lovely decor that my sister Katrina and friends had put up so beautifully, and then my eyes stopped on a man setting up a video recorder behind the last row of chairs. He smiled and waved as I nodded.

I didn’t think much about it that day; it was a whirlwind of events—ceremony, pictures, greeting guests, dinner, and reception. To this day, I have more of a sense of joy about the experience than actual vivid memories.

But one thing that stands out is seeing Larry, a friend’s father, quietly setting up that video camera in the back of the sanctuary. We didn’t ask him to do it; the thought hadn’t even crossed my mind. But he knew how important this day was to us and was wise enough to know that we’d want a record of it. To this day, it is the greatest gift we received and the one I didn’t even know I’d want or need.

When I talked with Larry’s son Andrew later about what his dad had done, he told me he wasn’t surprised. His dad was always doing little (and big) things for others. He had a heart for people and loved them well. Larry has since passed away, but his legacy and the kindness he offered others are not forgotten.

The Bible encourages us that whenever we can do good to others, we should—especially those who are fellow believers. But to do that, we must think about what might be beneficial or helpful to them. Establishing a habit of doing good starts with small things; holding the door for someone whose arms are full, smiling at the checkout person and thanking them, or allowing a mom with young kids to go ahead of you in line are simple ways to start. Over time we’ll find that our lives, like Larry’s, are defined by the loving acts, both big and small, that others will remember about us for years to come.

Kendra

Today’s Act of Gratitude

Do something good for someone else.