| In His Steps |
Chapter 6 |
Page 5 |
It is the little things that all of us can do in Christ’s name which in the end leave the largest aggregate of blessing in the world. We need not wait to do great and conspicuous things. One Amazon is enough for a continent, but there is a room for a million little rivulets and purling brooks. A life that every day gives its blessing to another and adds to the happiness of some fellow being by only a word of kindness, a thoughtful act, a cheering look, or a hearty hand grasp, does more for the world than he who but once in a lifetime does some great thing which fills a land with his praise. Nothing that is done for Christ is lost. The smallest acts, the quietest words, the gentlest inspirations that touch human souls, leave their impress for eternity.
Then while we are giving out blessing to help and to enrich other lives, we are receiving also into our own heart. The words of the Master are literally true: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” He did not say it is more pleasant, more agreeable, but more blessed. The song we sing to cheer a weary spirit echoes back new cheer into our own soul. The sacrifice we make to help one in distress leaves us not poorer, but richer. Love’s stores are not wasted by giving – the more we give, the more we have. The way to grow rich in the treasures of kindness and affection is to show kindness and affection to all who need. If we find our spiritual life languishing, its resources growing less, the true way to refresh it is not by closer economy in giving to others, but by greater generosity.
“For the heart grow rich in giving:
All its wealth is living grain;
Seeds which mildew in the garner,
Scattered, fill with gold the plain
* * * * * * * * * * *
“Is the heart a living power?
Self entwined, its strength sinks low,
It can only live in loving;
And by serving love will grow.”
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