Helen Winfield writes:
Last week I finally got around to reading one of the many books I’ve brought and just left on my book shelf. It’s called ‘Channel of Peace’ and is about how the people of Gander a small town of 9,000 people in Newfoundland rallied together as a community to look after around 6,500 people who were diverted there on thirty-eight transatlantic airline flights due to the terrible events of 9/11. It is an account written by one of the passengers who was inspired by the kindness that he was shown whilst stranded there. He tells numerous stories of kindness from the basics of being offered food and shelter to the way in which they were constantly offered forms of kindness at every turn. The people of Gander had united together to help all these people without wanting anything in return.
In the same way since many of us have been told to stay at home we are continually hearing stories of kindness. From the amazing fundraising efforts of Captain Tom Moore, people offering to get someone’s shopping or even just taking the time to phone and check up on someone. Despite the horrible situation, just like in Gander we are constantly hearing stories of how people are showing the best of humanity.
Personally I think this clearly demonstrates how we as Christians are so important in these situations. Matthew 25:35-40 tells us how when we are helping someone in any way we are also doing it for the Lord. Suggesting that one of the ways we can be good role models as Christians is through showing acts of kindness towards others.
The other thing I wanted to share with you all is that as a result of the act of kindness the author of the book was the recipient of, he made the decision to set up a Pay it Forward scheme. The idea being that if one small group of individuals does something kind for others, this would then be replicated until we are all surrounded by numerous acts of kindness.
Let’s all spread kindness and help others however we can. Remembering that no matter what we can still find ways of sharing Gods love without even leaving our house.
I challenge you all to take up this idea, be creative and start spreading kindness to the people around you - Helen
Spend a few moment thinking about these familiar lyrics before ask God to show you how you might make a difference in someone else’s life today.
Make me a channel of Your peace.Where there's despair in life let me bring hope;
where there is darkness, only light;and where there’s sadness, ever joy.
Oh, Master, grant that I may never seek so much to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand; to be loved, as to love with all my soul.
(Sebastian Temple © 1967 Franciscan Communications)
At church we sing many songs written by Keith & Kristyn Getty, perhaps you would like to spend 20 minutes praising God with them and their daughters. There are various sessions to choose from as they have been producing weekly videos. Their video dated 21st April includes some inspiring words from Joni Eareckson.
YouTube: ‘Getty Family Hymn Sing’
Enjoy praising God, I look forward to writing to you on Sunday- Stephen