A Cup of Joe
This Week's Theme: A Heart for Others
Tuesday, June 12, 2001
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Key Bible Verse: If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well, keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? (James 2:16).
Bonus Reading:Matthew 10:40-42
Walking to work, I passed a StreetWise vendor. Chicago has this program to help homeless people raise money by selling a small newspaper for a dollar. It was a bitterly cold January morning and I'd already stopped by Starbucks and paid more than a buck for a measly cup of coffee. Feeling noble, I struggled to find my wallet, reached in, and took out a dollar.
As I did, she asked, "Do you really want the paper, or can I keep it to sell to someone else?" "Keep the paper," I replied. "That's fine." Then I added, "How are you today?" She said, "I'm so cold." I turned to go, and told her matter-of-factly, "I hope the sun comes out, it warms up, and you have a good day."
I continued on, with the cup of coffee warming my hand. About a half block toward the office the conversation finally registered in my mind, along with the words of [today's Key Bible Verse]. I wrestled for a moment with what I should do, but I was late, so I kept walking. Ever since, I've regretted not giving her a cup of hot coffee in Christ's name.
Joseph Stowell in A Heart for the City
Respond:
God, who do You have in mind for me to help today?
Thought to Apply:
Christianity demands a level of caring that transcends human inclinations.
Erwin Lutzer (Illinois pastor)
Adapted from: John Fuder, A Heart for the City (Moody Press, Moody Bible Institute, 1999)
For your convenience, A Heart for the City is available in the ChristianityToday.com bookstore. 1 of 1
Father, help me to reflect Your deep compassion to the needy people I encounter.
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