Keep on loving each other...

Jack was a man who returned to work pulling himself out of retirement to collect some cash for a project at his home. His wife, Alice, had become unable to walk in the past year and he so much wanted to make their home handicap accessible for her.

He found a part-time job and he had such hope in his heart of raising $1,500 needed to transform his home for his wife. Their marriage was nearly 60 years strong. He wanted to spend every daylight hour with Alice, but trekked off to work three mornings a week.

Jack fell to the ground at work as a stroke took his life. He had shared his dream of helping his wife with several co-workers. One of his friends at work, George, took charge and passed the hat collecting money in memory of Jack.

Much to the surprise of George, the 120 co-workers tossed in $1,200 in the first two days following Jack’s death. George knew just how important this was to Jack and to Alice and did not think twice about taking $300 he had pinned to his curtains in his home and donated it to the cause meeting the goal of $1,500.

With tears in his eyes, George handed over an envelope with $1,500 in it to Alice and said, “here is the money Jack was working for to pay for your home project.”

This is a tale of two strong believers in Christ. Both men showed the compassion of Jesus. They both picked up their towels and served someone else like in the example of Jesus being the servant of all.

The second part of the story of the “Last Supper” (John 13) is the example of Jesus serving others. Jesus washed his disciples’ feet, doing a job that servants did. People walked most everywhere then and their feet were hot, dirty and tired. Having them washed really made them feel good.

If we all were servants to others and helped others live happier lives, would not this world be a great place to live in? We are told in Hebrews 13:1 (NIV) “Keep on loving each other as brothers.”

Father God ~ May we truly love one another as much as we love ourselves. Give us the desire to take up our towels and take care of the needs of others, like Jack and George did for Alice. May we show our love for one another by serving them. In Jesus name. Amen and Amen!

Serving a Living God,

Rick Hawbaker
Praying 4 U Ministries