Do Unto Others
“…and whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple— truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward.” Matthew 10:42
My father was a very smart man. He served over 43 years in the Navy as a paymaster, or in Navy terms, a disbursing clerk. He was a Master Chief, with a lifetime of military service to our country. He was the most intelligent person I have ever met, but even more, he had what can only be called “uncommon sense.” He knew and understood life like few ever do, and his amazing ability to see and comprehend was anything but common.
Among the many lessons I learned from Daddy was how to work tirelessly, give generously, and live victoriously. He taught my siblings and me how to love America, traveling the country from Canada to Mexico and from sea to shining sea. He was careful to point out the people who lived places very different from our own, and showed us how to love and accept everyone, no matter their station in life.
He kept a measured routine by his commitment to self-discipline. Daddy left for the base every morning in a sparkling clean starched uniform with impeccably shined shoes, and his cover under his arm. He worked tirelessly for Uncle Sam, giving his best every day. His life of faith was equally disciplined, and he never missed a Sunday in church. He taught us by his example that life is what you make it, and he often told us, “to whom much is given, much is expected. Don’t squander what you have; use it to make the world a better place.”
Daddy lived by that motto. He gave to anyone who needed it, whether it was a ride, a meal, or a place to stay. Many mornings there was someone sleeping on our sofa because Daddy did want them to be left outside. He came by this trait honestly, growing up on a farm during the Great Depression, where his family shared what they had with others. He believed that no one should ever be left out or left behind.
During this time of uncertainty due to a health crisis, people are responding in remarkable ways. Daily I hear of those who are sacrificing and giving of themselves and their resources to help others. Our calling as Christians is to share what we have with those who are less fortunate than we are. We are to reach out to others in the name of Jesus Christ, spreading goodwill and grace through our generosity. Let’s all find ways to make the world a better place by helping, serving, giving, and loving in acts both great and small. In this way, we will all make it through together.