I am selfish. Seriously, compared to other people, I might seem really nice and all. But the people around us taught me that I can go a few notches higher. The guys and girls from the Living Room asked for nothing in return and helped me move. I knew some of the people who helped us move just from seeing them in church but we had never talked, and they were there bright and early and with such a radiant attitude! Honestly, if you had asked me a month ago, I would not have done the same for any of them if I had been presented the opportunity. Of course, now I would gladly give back!!
They asked for nothing in return either when I had no food and they filled my fridge with not just food, but hope. And it's really funny because every time I looked into the fridge, I dreaded and thought "oh no, I am not going to have enough to make for lunch" and then miraculously, it was enough for one meal. And so it went on for a WHOLE WEEK!!! These guys are living like I always imagined it was with the apostles. When one had, he shared with the one who didn't have, and the latter felt just as worthy as the first. And they lacked nothing, especially not encouragement and friendship.
There is such a powerful lesson here that I can't think about it without getting all teary-eyed. The Supernatural lifestyle I had been praying for is all around me, surrounding me and I am able to see, recognize, appreciate and enjoy it! WOW!!! It has to do with giving with open hands. It will all come back to you with interests.
It's how you see things that really determines how you enjoy and appreciate your life. I can see things happen and call it "fate", "destiny", "my doing". But I choose to see the awe and wonder of prayers and inner cries being answered and giving God the credit for it. I am by absolutely no means rich, but wealthy in every aspect. I have been on the receiving end for enough time and now my heart longs to give back, to share with whoever is in need. My heart is pouring with gratitude.
If I can sum up what it is that I have learned these past few weeks, it's this:
You are happiest when you give to those in need with open hands. And those who receive will rejoice in God because maybe the simplest gesture is God-inspired and the answer to somebody's prayer.
I encourage you to give like the people from the Living Room. It doesn't have to be money either. It can be a word of comfort or inspiration, a smile, a helping hand, a listening ear or a simple (delicious, loving, solidary, friendly, consoling) hug. It has changed my life and it will change yours too when you see the fruit of what God has planted in the hearts of people all around you.
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