Helping Hurting People

The Gift Goes On

Haiti and other hurting places: As I hear about the hurting men, women, and children of Haiti and watch the caring people who’ve chosen to help, I’m reminded of a story. A young friend told me about her recent missions trip.  “It was dark, dirty work,” she said.  “Yet, it was my group’s job to set up a wooden stage on a dump site in preparation for our evening concert. We had no idea if anyone would come to hear us sing, so when we finally got the lights to work, we were delighted to find that we were surrounded by children.

“After our concert, I felt a tug on my sleeve. I turned to notice the little brown-eyed girl I had met earlier in the day. I distinctly remember praying, ‘God, please help this child.’

Surprise Gift: “Speaking in her native language she tried to tell me something–again and again she tried. Finally through the help of an interpreter I learned the message she wanted me to hear.  ‘I’ll see you later in heaven,’ said the little girl.

“Then this special child joined her waiting mother and stepped out of my sight.  But not out of my mind or heart. Our shared moment changed everything for me. It certainly changed my attitude for the rest of our trip. This small one with the hopeful message didn’t have a big house, or fancy clothes and toys to share, yet she gave me a very special gift that day. It altered my ideas about giving and caring for others.  We all have something valuable to give. Each person’s gift is important.”

Generosity multiples: My teenage friend spent her school vacation singing and praying for children in El Salvador.  A little girl heard her and gave back words of gratefulness and hope.  Then my friend shared the experience with me. That inspired me to share it with you. When we give what we can to another human being, we never know for certain how far our gift will go.

Your gift is important: What did you do today to inspire or help another?

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