I have a friend. When I look at his actions, the choices he makes when nobody is looking, I find a heart that beats in harmony with God. His compassion for his fellow man takes him beyond the normal call of duty. Early morning work routines would seem to eliminate any chance for interaction; in his case they create moments of opportunity. A helping push here, a lift there, and everyone’s life is taking a little step forward.
I cannot imagine what it would be like to consistently wake up in the middle of night and trudge off to work, especially in the ice, wind, and snow of winter. It almost seems beyond imagination to lift 300 pound boxes into trucks by yourself. How would I survive? Would I be able to do this without complaint? Money found is returned without reservation, even though bills remain unpaid on the table at home. My friend does and more yet life throws more curves in his day than I see in a week. He faces the grind without complaint.
“It’s wrong to penalize good behavior, or make good citizens pay for the crimes of others.” (Proverbs 17.26)
I wonder about my own actions. I complain when the smallest things are not in order. I fuss when my seat is not as I requested for my flight. I repeat decisions made in my weakness to glorify self and exploit others. I wonder aloud because I do not want to pay for my mistakes much less for anyone else.
God responds equally in bad weather and good to his followers and those who have yet to acknowledge love and mercy. Just like his sons reaching out to help others, God is always extending a helping hand and getting slapped in return. For my failure He alone paid the price for recreation. As I stumble, He reaches out to help regardless of my response.
Above all, God gives compassion and mercy to all, because that is who he is. I know because I have seen one of his sons in action.
