A simple but sacrificial gift of a turkey crown turned disaster into a moment of joy and blessing. Generosity often shows up when we least expect it, making a lasting impact. What small, spontaneous act of kindness could you offer today to make a difference in someone’s life??
It was Christmas Eve in the vicarage of our new parish and there was no space in our goody-filled fridge to store the enormous half-thawed turkey. There were hordes of family members descending on us for Christmas lunch. “Let's put it in the garage,” we thought, “it'll be cool enough there.”
Next day, I headed off to do the early Christmas service. My wife arrived for the next service looking distressed. “Something has gnawed off part of the turkey! We've got all these people coming, what shall we do?” But the service was starting, I was leading and she was in the music group.
After the service we headed home wondering what to do. There was a ring at the doorbell. A lovely lady from church stood there with a small chicken...it was a spare she had. It was a lovely act of generosity...but it'd never feed everyone. In a panic, I said I'd try to find a shop that was open. As if a shop selling turkeys would be open on Christmas Day morning!
After a frantic hour driving, I arrived home empty handed. “What do we do, we pondered.” Then came another ring at the door. Another couple from church. But in their hands, a massive freshly cooked turkey crown, hot and ready to eat. It was as if they were about to sit down to eat their own Christmas lunch, but instead jumped in the car, and drove to our house, and presented it to us, despite our protests! I've never forgotten that extraordinary sacrificial generosity. I've no idea what they had for Christmas lunch that day.
What small act of sacrificial generosity might make all the difference to someone today? Today’s challenges are all about being prepared for spontaneous generosity.
Adrian Youings, Care for the Family
Reflect
"One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty". Proverbs 11:24 (NIV)
Pray
Pray for a heart ready to respond to spontaneous opportunities for generosity, trusting that God can use even small sacrifices to make a big impact. Ask for eyes to see where others are in need and the courage to act, even when it’s inconvenient.
Act
Acts for you to consider today:
| Think of ways that you can compliment and thank people the next time you’re with them. Write these down and carry them in your pocket. | ||
| Throw a packet of tissues in your bag so that you have one on hand the next time someone needs one. | ||
| Collect spare change, or set aside a bank note in your wallet for when you meet someone in need. |
Share
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About Care for the Family
Care for the Family offers practical and emotional support to families in various situations, such as marriage, parenting, bereavement, and single parenthood.
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