“The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.” Luke 6:45
Someone once said, “You are what you think”. I like to believe that who we are is directly related to how much we embrace and allow the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts and minds. As we collaborate with God, He pours into our lives His love, joy, peace, kindness, gentleness, self-control, grace, and mercy. As we continue to experience His grace, love, and mercy to over-filling, we are able to pour the fruits of His spirit into others.
It is so wonderful to feel His presence and to know that our loving Father desires to give His best to each of us. It is refreshing to escape from the “legalistic trappings” of people and churches unwilling to realize in their hearts and in their minds the grace and mercy that was modeled by our Lord – The Redeemer.
The following story from the heart of a loving father is a reminder to all of us about the importance of sharing the gifts, talents, and grace we have been given to encourage others. This is especially needed in this cruel and broken world.
Last week I took my children to a restaurant. My six-year-old son asked if he could say grace. As we bowed our heads he said, “God is good, God is great. Thank you for the food, and I would even thank you more if Mom gets us ice cream for dessert. And liberty and justice for all! Amen!”
Along with the laughter from the other customers nearby I heard a woman remark, “That’s what’s wrong with this country. Kids today don’t even know how to pray. Asking God for ice cream! Why, I never!”
Hearing this, my son burst into tears and asked me, “Did I do it wrong? Is God mad at me?” As I held him and assured him that he had done a terrific job and God was certainly not mad at him, an elderly gentleman approached the table.
He winked at my son and said, “I happen to know that God thought that was a great prayer. ” Really?” my son asked. “Cross my heart,” the man replied. Then in a theatrical whisper he added (indicating the woman whose remark had started this whole thing), “Too bad she never asks God for ice cream. A little ice cream is good for the soul sometimes.”
Naturally, I bought my kids ice cream at the end of the meal. My son stared at his for a moment and then did something I will remember the rest of my life. He picked up his sundae and without a word, walked over and placed it in front of the woman.
With a big smile he told her, “Here, this is for you. Ice cream is good for the soul sometimes, and my soul is good already.”
I love this story!
I hope God sends you some Ice Cream this week! Sometimes we all need to thank God for the little things like some ice cream or a cream puff or a trophy bull elk or a big fish.
Personal Application:
Why do you think Jesus spoke these words to His disciples, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35.
Do you feel the power of the Spirit directing you to do a good turn for someone else?
Jim Grassi, D. Min.