Uncommon Kindness

In most of our recovery meetings we read statements about anonymity to protect the rights of those who come. We never repeat specifics about an individual but sometimes we give general details, especially when they are so absolutely compelling.

In one of our meetings this week a woman showed up who was having a problem with grief and a relapse. She was also facing possible jail time for a probation violation. In our group there were mostly men from a sober living facility. After tears of sharing without hesitation several men volunteered to put money on her books when and if she does go to jail, and to help with anything else needed.

That was a spontaneous wonderful thing considering that these men had very little to give, and it reminded me of the story of the widows offering in Luke 21:1-4. It also reminded me that when you give back what you have been freely given, you receive so much more in return. Not necessarily money but blessings that come from doing what God would want us to do.

It's not rocket science, when God changes your heart you respond to needful moments. Look at all the volunteers in NC some of whom have been there for a month. Matthew 25:42-43 says it way better than I could: For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat. I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink. I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick in prison and you did not look after me.

This holiday season think about just helping one individual who needs that kind of help, be on the lookout to the opportunity to make an incredible difference!