Love Knows No Bounds

“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” — Luke 6:38

I have told this story many times. It often shines in my heart and reminds me of how incredibly thoughtful and compassionate our young people are. 

I can still see my students finishing packing up boxes of food and gifts and recognizing we had substantially more donations than we needed. What to do? 

There was a quiet discussion and then someone suggested “Could we take them to the area in town across the tracks by the river? It’s a really poor area of town.” The route was planned, car pools were established, boxes of food and gifts were loaded and off we went. 

We arrived, parked in the street, and student partners quickly unloaded boxes from the cars and started toward the homes. Knocking on doors and offering a box of food and a few gifts for Christmas. My heart grew just watching the gentle nature of our students and how kindly they treated those they greeted and how genuinely those they greeted received their kindness. Tears flowing down the cheeks of some individuals. Kind gestures, handshakes, and smiles were exchanged. Little children clinging to their mom’s legs or standing on their very tippy toes to see what the surprise guest had in the box. All a very simple gesture, all collected from the hands of giving individuals, all accepted by a family who felt incredibly blessed. 

Then it happened, one lady said “No, thank you. I don’t need this. I have been really blessed this year. You know who needs it, though? The family right next to me.” She pointed and directed the students to take the box meant for her to the trailer next door. She said “Here’s a 20. Please add it to the box.” Tears welled up in everyone’s eyes as they walked to the family next door and told them about the kindness of their neighbor.

I remember gathering with my students that day. One of them asked if they could lead us in prayer and there in the middle of the homes we prayed. I was completely in awe. My cup overfloweth. My heart witnessed an outpouring of love that knows no bounds and it’s never looked back. 

Lord, thank You for the joy of giving. Help me to recognize the opportunities You place before me to serve and to give with a joyful heart. Let my actions reflect Your love, and may I find joy in seeing others blessed. Thank you so much Lord. Have a beautiful day! Amen.

All My Love,

Jen

For more information about Get Strong with Jen! click here.

Spots of Joy - Prayer for PTSD - Day 18 click here.