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To every action there is a reaction. In turn, these actions and reactions create expectations.
When someone behaves unexpectedly, we are surprised. When we do something that we didn't plan or expect, we are surprised.
The most important thing that we can do is to maximize our positive actions and minimize the negative ones.
I live in a residence with many other seniors. Most are very positive, and when we listen to the chatter when groups are together, we really don't notice the positive comments, because that is what is expected.
The other day, amongst the chatter, I turned to the person beside me and said, "Did you hear that?"
I was surprised to hear a person, who tends to be negative, quietly say something positive to one of the staff. It was not a significant comment, but it was unexpected, and so, I was surprised.
It made me think that I must be more careful in my reactions to others. Little things can make such a difference.
The following day, I noticed a lady walking past my table using a cane, obviously in pain. I made a sympathetic observation, and each day thereafter, her walking improved, minus the cane, and she smiled each time she passed my table.
It certainly was a minor thing that I did, but based on her smile, it meant something significant to her.
Jesus challenged us in His teachings to be a light unto others.
Matthew 5:14-16 – You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. (NIV)
There is the well-known little song by Harry Dixon Loes based on these verses:
- This little light of mine
I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!
The light that shines is the light of love,
Lights the darkness from above.
It shines on me and it shines on you,
And it shows what the light of love can do.
I'm gonna shine my light both far and near,
I'm gonna shine my light both bright and clear.
Where there's a dark corner in this land
I'm gonna let my little light shine.
Finally, there is the challenge from the Old Testament:
Micah 6:8 – He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? (ESV)
Prayer: Dear Father, thank You for the privilege of representing You to others. Help us to share Your love, even in surprising ways. Amen.
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Thank you.
Very inspiring words, Vincent.
Thanks, Vincent. I also live in a world of retired folks and appreciate your words.
Thank you, Vincent, for sharing this devotional and observations with us. Amen.
Great reminder at the beginning of the Easter Season. Thanks, and God bless, Vincent!
Dear Vincent,
I love your simple daily observations and reflections on life as you’re experiencing it now. It gives hope to we who are following close behind you!
To V. Walter,
Thank you for a heart-felt devotional.
Keep sending in your writing and prayers.
I pray for inspiration for you.
Amazing, this writing in its simplicity and truth! Reminding us of what we all know and were taught once, but perhaps have let that light go out. Thank you for today’s reminder. Grateful.
Vincent,
Your devotionals are always positive and uplifting. Thank you for sharing your love and light with us and to the people around you. May you look out today and see the beauty that God has created. Blessings.
Hello Vince,
Thank you for another special devotional. Sometimes doing something we consider a small deed for someone can be a very big thing to them and in so doing we spread the love and care of Jesus. His love for us is so endless in so many ways and depths.
Blessings as you continue to “shine your light,” thus showing the light of Jesus to others.
(B.C.)
Hello
Another good one, and as a child we used to sing sometimes, “this little light of mine I’m going to let it shine, hide it under a bushel no, I’m going to let it shine”. We did the actions to the song. I was ‘surprised’ a few years ago when I was in a Catholic church here that they sang that song in Portuguese of course and no actions to the song.
Nice surprise!
God bless.
Greetings, Vincent, If you heard of the big earthquake last summer, I was sitting here in my living alone.
Within 10 minutes I was surrounded by 3 neighbor families, cars began coming to check up on we who they knew were alone.
My reason to comment on your devotion is that almost every week I go to a home for those who can’t be alone anymore and go for breakfast with a dear friend. Now I have to remind her who I am. She’s 91, I’m 95 and greatly blessed. There are many in that dining room who look forward to my visit, many who have no one who come for varying reasons. I am so happy that the Lord is using me to bring JOY to those who need it. Many blessings on you.
(California)