You Are Blessed To Be A Blessing

While taking some time off in Albuquerque, New Mexico, while my wife, Leslie was attending Richard Rohr's Living School for Action and Contemplation, I was exploring Old Town Plaza, when suddenly a young mother with her 12 year old daughter walked up to me and the mother, with tears in her eyes, very humbly and nervously pleaded with me to help them.  She said she had recently left her husband, and that she had a job, but they couldn’t make ends meet.  I ask how I could help them and she said they needed food.  I ask her name and with a look of delight on her face, she said “Thank You” and told me their names. I assume she had been disrespected by others that she had ask for help, and not valued as human being.  I gave them money for food and as they were thanking me, I asked if I could give them a hug.  She said yes and we hugged, then I hugged her daughter and told them that God loves them.  The mother said that the hug was what they needed most and thanked me enthusiastically for caring.  I said God Bless you both and turned to walk away and the mother grabbed my hand, looked into my eyes and said, “You are very strong.”

Unknowingly at the time, with the Holy Spirit as my guide, I gave this mother and daughter love and hope and support at a time when they really needed it.  The mother was obviously broken and lonely, and to her the hug was a gesture of love and encouragement.  

On reflection later, I realized that I have been blessed abundantly by God’s love and presence in my life, and know that I was created to be a blessing to others.  I was delighted to bless this young mother and daughter, and surprised to be blessed so richly by the thanks and appreciation they gave back to me.

Now I really know the meaning of what Jesus meant when He said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”  Acts 20:35

It also reminded me of Hebrews 13:2, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for in doing so some have entertained angels without realizing it.”

“Whatever you do for one of the least of your brothers and sisters you do for Me.”  Matthew 25:40

Thank You Father for blessing me so abundantly so that I may be a blessing to others.  Thank You for the opportunities to show Your love to my sisters and brothers. 

Lord how may I glorify You in this new day?

God, “Share your spiritual experiences with others.  Share the stories of what happens when you love and bless others, as I have loved and blessed you.  Go out and be a blessing to everyone you meet.

Lord, let it be unto me as You say.  May all that is You overflow from me to everyone this day.

God, “It is unto you as you pray.  I live within you and I am with you all the way.”