Dennis Carpenter has suggested that people give any extra luggage they no longer need to their local foster care agency. Many times, foster children transport their belongings in a trash bag. Having a suitcase can help add to their self-esteem.
For the past twenty-eight years, the 12th graders at Balfour Collegiate, a high school in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada have hosted a dance for the senior citizens in their community. Before the dance, some of the students put on a variety show of drama, dance, and visual arts. Students in the cooking class prepare and serve the meal. Several of the athletes and other students say they look forward to this event all year long. Most of the senior citizens are from low-income housing near the school. They enjoy interacting with and meeting the students and the students are fascinated with the stories from their older neighbors.
Harold uses a wheelchair to get around and lives at the nursing home across the street from where Shawn Beveridge is working on a building project. When Shawn arrives at the site, at 7 a.m., Harold is already sitting on the porch watching the workers. He eats lunch when they do and continues to watch until the crane is shut down for the day. After a few days, Shawn was curious and went across the street and introduced himself. He found out that Harold had operated a crane for more than 50 years. Since he could no longer work, Shawn made a deal with his new friend. Every day, after work, he would cross the street and visit with Harold. They would talk about work that day and he asked Harold to offer suggestions and to critique his work. He then told Harold he would bring him a cup of coffee every morning and would buy him lunch, from wherever he chose, twice a week for as long as he was at that job. Shawn later commented, “I’m thankful to have the opportunity to make this man’s last days enjoyable, filled with purpose and to be able to smile again.” He then challenged, “Don’t be afraid to make someone’s day better. Always try to enlighten someone’s spirits. When God chooses to take this man home, I’m happy knowing I’ve been placed here at this location to make his days better. I’m happy with that.”
This week, may our actions also express devotion, honor, and love.
Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Romans 12:10
