Generous Hearts

Wanting a new bicycle, six-year-old Nawal Victoria Roa had been saving her money and putting it in a piggy bank. Recently, an earthquake struck her city in Colombia killing hundreds of people, injuring thousands, and leaving thousands without their home and belongings. Seeing the suffering, Nawal decided she wanted to give the money she had saved to help others. She carried her piggy bank and gave it to a lady at the relief center. Nawal’s mother said, “I want my daughter to understand that someone else’s needs could be greater than her own wish.”

Dave Whitlow is a father, grandfather, and retired government manager. He spends every Tuesday and Thursday in the neonatal intensive care unit at VCU Children’s Hospital in Richmond, Virginia, volunteering as a baby cuddler and comforter for the tiny and vulnerable babies. Realizing the importance of human touch, Dave rocks, comforts, and speaks to the babies. Some days he holds as many as eight infants. Before returning a baby to the incubator, Dave softly says, “Grow strong. Grow smart. Grow kind.”

Recently, Mateo Nicasio celebrated his 8th birthday. He was excited about going to Walmart to spend the $23 he received at his party. While at the stoplight, Mateo saw a young mother selling candy for $3. Asking his mom if he could buy some candy, she asked why. He replied, “I want the woman to have enough money to buy milk for her baby.” He gave the young mother $3 for the candy and also gave her the additional $20. Strangers sent money to Mateo to replace what he had given. He decided that he wanted to use the money to help people who need it more than he does.

 

Michael Parziale, from New Jersey, founded Parziale’s U.S.A.R. Drone Team, for the purpose of rescuing lost pets. The team members use thermal-imaging drones which are capable of detecting body heat in the dark. Pets have been located hiding in the woods, in large open spaces, and other places that are difficult to search for on foot, especially at night. So far, the U.S.A.R. Drone Team has reunited over 120 animals with their owners.

 

With generous hearts, may we also find ways to make a difference.

 

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Colossians 3:12