Just A Thought

 It seemed like a great idea. Major retail giants were needing to do something with all the returned merchandise. Many of the products were in good shape, but not resalable. I was working for a non-profit that was trying to help needy families. Some innovative people had successfully formulated a plan to salvage the retail returns and distribute them – Free - to families that were connected with a national pre-school program. 

I had been asked to help sort thousands of dollars’ worth of clothes, small appliances, books, sports equipment and toys, and to cull out items that were damaged or dysfunctional. It felt good to be part of something that had the potential to help thousands of families who did not have the funds to by such items for themselves. It looked like a win-win situation. 

As the giveaway period approached there were teams who worked to advertise the free resources, and to set up distribution points. Many volunteer hours were invested in providing an opportunity for people who were difficult situations to get new merchandise simply by showing up. The day distribution centers opened, organizers were excited at the opportunity to infuse needy communities with much needed resources.

However, much to the surprise everyone, things did not go so well. Although many thankful people undoubtedly came and gleaned much needed clothes and supplies, there was a vocal group of attendees that were less thankful. They complained about quantities and quality. They demanded more and better. The fought with others over items they wanted. What was intended to be a blessing became a fiasco that left a bitter taste in the mouths of those who had given so much time to the endeavor.

It was eye-opening to see that kind of response. It revealed that some people are not always thankful for opportunities. I guess it should not have been a surprise, in that mankind has habitually complained about the opportunities God has provided… such as the opportunity to love one’s neighbor or do good to those who spitefully use us. But it also illustrated how important it is for good people to continue being good even when the opportunities they afford others are not appreciated. Doing good because it is right must be the motivator, rather than doing good because people are thankful. That is how good overcomes.

Here's the advice St Paul game to the first century, persecuted believers in Rome. 

Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Laugh with your happy friends when they’re happy; share tears when they’re down. Get along with each other; don’t be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don’t be the great somebody. Don’t hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you’ve got it in you, get along with everybody. Don’t insist on getting even; that’s not for you to do. “I’ll do the judging,” says God. “I’ll take care of it.” Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he’s thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don’t let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good. (Romans 12:14-21 MSG)

# posted by John W. Hanson @ Monday, February 27, 2023