Setting Examples

Cheryl Boxer and her husband dropped their son off at the train station to go back to college for the spring semester.  Once again, it was too quiet when they arrived at home.  Missing were the sounds of conversation, video games, guitar playing and music.  Then Cheryl began finding notes that her son had left.  Some were in obvious places where he knew she would find them.  He left a note on the mirror, “I love you” on a card inside the coffee maker, and notes in obscure places for his mom to find.  When he called to let her know he was back at the university, Cheryl let her son know she had enjoyed finding the notes.  She was certain he had also found the note she left inside his lunch, “Be careful and I love you.”

Bekki Viau and her 6-year-old son, Edward, were walking around downtown Pittsburgh, headed to eat lunch before going to Edward’s doctor appointment.  On the way, the two passed an elderly man, sitting on the curb.  He had a cup and sign asking for money.  Edward dropped some coins in the cup.  After lunch, he told his mother that he wanted to take the man something to eat.  Bekki bought another meal and Edward gave it to the man.  On the way home, Edward decided they should go back and take the man a pillow and blanket, too. 

 

After football practice, Jason Rodgers took his two young sons to eat.  Even after practice, the boys still seemed to have a lot of energy.  It didn’t take long to realize that there was a long line and the place seemed to be short staffed.  Looking for ways to teach his boys to have a good work ethic, this seemed to be a great opportunity.  He had his oldest son, who is 7, ask the lady behind the counter for some clean towels.  Then he instructed him on how to clean off the tables and chairs.  The 3-year-old son pushed the chairs under the tables.  As he waited in line to order, Jason continued to watch and instruct.  The two teenagers behind him in line commented, “I would hate to have you as my dad.  They aren’t even getting paid!”  After finishing her meal, a woman complimented Grady and handed him $20.  He was so proud.  Jason asked his son, “What do I tell you about working and doing something others won’t do?”  Grady replied, “I will get paid more than anybody else.”  When questioned about what he would do with half of the money, his son said, “SAVE IT IN MY PIGGY BANK!”  Jason commented, “My heart couldn’t glow more if I wanted it to!  Thank you!  To the nice young lady giving my son the $20, it wasn’t needed, but it was perfect!  Sometimes when you least expect it!”

 

Whether we are aware or not, ears are listening and eyes are watching what we say and do.  May we follow God’s example, so our efforts make a positive difference and impact.

 

Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children.

Ephesians 5:1