How can normal, everyday people who follow Jesus carry out similar acts of kindness? I know there are tons of ideas out there that don't cost much money but can truly impact people in very positive and long-lasting ways.
For example, I know one person from VWS (Vineyard Westside) who picks up Panera and takes it to strangers. I know that people from VCC (The big Vineyard) have passed out water to complete strangers. I know about others who knock on doors to clean strangers bathrooms. They just knock on doors an say, "Hey, can we clean your john." Chris Day (Driving Without Mirrors blog) began randomly connecting with people, just strangers, with blogs to offer them prayer and encouragement. Some other people just invest time into other people's lives on a regular basis. I read a blog post where someone picked up a complete stranger on the road who needed to go 15 miles (she later found out).
What are some other ways the everyday acts kindness, small personal investments, can change someone's perspective, make their day better, improve their mood? I want to come up with a brainstorming list, so any ideas ("light bulbs coming on") you have would be much appreciated. The more interesting, outside the box, the better.
4 comments:
When we did Kingdom at VWS one night we were given an envelope with money in it. Then we were told we had 30 minuites to go and do with it what we wanted. Doug and I bought some guys beer in a bar, paid for someone's groceries at Kroger, and left some neccessities on someone's doorstep. It was so much fun. I've also heard of people going through a drive through and buying the person's meal that was behind them. I once went through a toll booth in West Virginia and paid for the car behind me. It's fun to watch the expression on the cashiers faces. I'd love to seee the faces of the people when they get up there and they tell them their fee has been paid.
Thanks, Kelly! Those are all great ideas.
Great post, Mike. I'm really big on the random acts of kindness. It not only impacts the individuals directly, but typically they go and tell. They relive the moment and replay it over and over to their circles of friends and families. It becomes a "pay it forward" effect. One small act of generosity can literally changes lives. Oh, how selfish we are most of the time!
You are so right, Chris, and you can speak from experience, the point about the "pay it forward effect." Your simple gesture of connecting with a blog-stranger has certainly caught fire.
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