BE CAREFUL HOW YOU TREAT STRANGERS

BE CAREFUL HOW YOU TREAT STRANGERS

JESUS CHRIST, the Author and Finisher of our faith, admonishes us to adhere to what we now call THE GOLDEN RULE: “And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise.” (Luke 6:31, NKJV) The Apostle Paul states a related truth in a different way, “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unaware.” (Hebrews 13:2) 

The following true story is a powerful illustration that highlights the fact that we may never know whom we encounter during the regular course of our day.  It is important to note that these events occurred during the turbulent American civil rights movement, in the southern state of Alabama.

One night around 11:30 pm, an African-American woman was standing on the side of a highway trying her best to endure a lashing rain storm.  Her car had broken down and she desperately needed transportation. Although she was nervous about seeking the aid of strangers, she was soaking wet and in urgent need of help, so she decided to flag down an oncoming car.  A young white man stopped to help her, which seemed somewhat atypical during the conflict-ridden 1960s.  This very kind gentleman drove to a nearby shop where she could get assistance for her vehicle, then safely ushered her into a taxi cab.

The unidentified woman was in a big hurry, but she took time to write down the man’s address and to thank him profusely before departing.  Seven days later, a knock came at the man’s door.  To his utter surprise, a giant combination console color television and stereo record player were delivered to his home.  

A beautiful note was attached, which read as follows:

Dear Mr. James,

Thank you so much for assisting me on the highway the other night.  That terrible rain drenched not only my clothes but my spirits.  Then you came along.  Because of you, I was able to make it to my dying husband’s bedside just before he passed away.  God bless you for helping me and for so unselfishly serving others.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Nat King Cole

Lesson learned.  No matter who it is, we should always make ourselves available to help others during times of urgent need – as much as humanly possible.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!