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I live in a home that is occupied largely by seniors. There are frequent changes, with people departing and others moving in. Change, as expected, brings stress.
The other day, an older lady (with her family) was inspecting a unit on my floor. She was considering a possible move into our home.
Awaiting the elevator, we exchanged pleasantries, but she was obviously stressed. I later found out that she was 94. Moving into a new home is stressful for anyone, but certainly more so at an advanced age.
Some time later, this lady and her family were waiting at the entrance of our dining room, when Irma arrived.
Suddenly, there were smiles and hugs as Irma greeted her friend. Irma told me that she hadn't seen her for seven years, but that they used to attend the same church. Irma told me that they are both 94.
The visiting lady's demeanour totally changed when she was greeted by her friend. Irma brought a smile to her face. As she was eating with her family, she was obviously happy that she now had a friend at what might become her new home.
As I thought about this interaction, I realized what a big difference little things can make. I also noticed that Irma did two things that were biblically-based, relatively simple, and things that each of us can do.
Ephesians 4:32 – Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. (ESV)
Firstly, Irma showed loving kindness. Even though the visiting lady had her family with her, it was obviously very important that she be greeted with a smile and a kiss, which made her former friend feel welcome at a time when she was obviously experiencing stress.
Matthew 18:20 – For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them. (ESV)
Secondly, Irma was there when her long-time friend needed her. Irma brought a big smile in a time of distress. How important it is for us to be there and not stay apart from others. Sometimes, it is easy for us to stay in our own little world and not make the effort to share with others. But the little effort required to share and show interest in others so often brings a much larger return.
Living here, I often observe the big rewards that come when small deeds of kindness are done. May we each accept the challenge to make a big difference by doing little things.
Prayer: Dear Father, thank You for the privilege of being able to represent You by being there for others. Thank You for the ultimate gift of kindness that You gave us through the gift of Your Son, Jesus. Help us to share kindness continually as a small example of Your love. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
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May it be so, Vincent.
So true, blessings Vincent!
Amen Vincent. Thanks for a good word.
“Do small things with great love” – Mother Theresa
Thank you for this reminder!
Blessings on your day.
Yes, it’s those little things in life that bring a smile and a new start to one’s day.
Thank you, Vincent for this reminder of our need to be loving and welcoming to others.
Beautiful, Vincent. In its simplicity and clarity, it surely says what is needed for me to hear today. Keep writing.
That was a beautiful message today. Reminded me how my mother hated the nursing home and needed a friend to give her a hug. Also was 94.
Greetings, Vincent,
Wonderfully said!
Blessings,
(BC)
Vincent, we needed to read this today! Thanks for all your encouragement and reminder of Jesus’ love and forgiveness towards us.
(Ontario)
Dear Vincent Walter,
Thank you for the devotional with it core challenge that we will represent for others the presence of our Lord.
Keep writing.
Thanks for this devotional Vincent! I have been the recipient of loving kindness since my husband passed unexpectedly! You are absolutely right about a smile, a hug, whatever. I will, in turn, be alert to others needing such gestures as well!
Vincent, this was such a lovely message, and l am so glad that Irma made her friend feel so welcome. How lovely that God knows our fears and wants and provides ease and comfort when we need it!
Blessings.
Your daily published today was very well written and gentle and kind. Thank you for reminding us of these things.
May God bless you for your sensitivity to newcomers, visitors and our senior seniors.
(Ontario, Canada)
Brother Vince your devotional about Irma bringing a smile reminded me a saying I once heard. I don’t recall who made the statement, but it went something like this; “The elderly don’t need much, they only need a little, but Oh, how they need that little so much”! Thank you for sharing.
Hello Vince,
Many thanks for another sweet devotional. What a joy Irma brought to that lady seeking a new residence. So true, sometimes the smallest gesture will bring great joy to another’s heart and this is something we need be ever mindful about. The joy of our Lord and how He works in our hearts is wonderful!
Blessings to you as you continue to write such special devotionals.
(B.C.)
Amen!
Thanks, Vince, for your down to earth and encouraging devotional today. As I consider the future of our church, I’m realizing more and more how powerful personal kindness is to each other. Thanks for your faithfulness and your many kindnesses to me in our years together at Scarborough.
Hello Walter
Thank you for this reminder, and it is so true. It is amazing what some little thing can do for someone. It costs nothing and yet the results are priceless.
God is so good.
God bless you.
Hi Vince,
Yes, God is good all the time, and all the time, He is good!
Blessings.
Hello Vince,
As I read your message ” Irma Bought a Smile” I realized how important it is for friends to stay in contact and, as a result, bring pleasure to one another’s lives. Great message, great work please continue your efforts are definitely having an influence on others.