Random Acts of Kindness

I'm simply me.  I grew up in a house where faith in God was just a part of life.  There have been people in my life who have taught me by their ways.  I've had my share of ups and downs.  But, today I try to live by faith and focus on ways I can live the way God guides me.  I feel strongly that I was inspired by others and I try to "pay it forward".  So, today, when somebody shared about several acts of kindness they had done lately, it made me happy to hear.  And then he said three awesome words.  "You inspired me."  How cool is that?!  And, ironically, that inspires me!  Knowing that what I do matters makes me think even more about what I'm doing.  I'm nobody special.  I didn't do anything special.  I don't write this to sound vain in any way and I hope nobody takes it that way.  Rather, I write to say this.  The little things mean alot.  So many people have influenced my faith and belief in God when I was growing up.  It wasn't what they told me.  It's what they did.  I saw God in the way my parents always loved me- even when I wasn't very lovable.  I saw God in my grandma when she welcomed me into her home to live with my 2 year old boy.  I saw God in my sister when I realized she was the best friend I've been blessed to know my whole life.  I saw God in my youth leader when I knew I could tell her anything and trust her.  I saw God in Lou when I was literally down to my last dollar and he happened to randomly hand me a  $20.  There are so many people I can't count them all!  (So, if I didn't mention you, don't be mad!)  So, I feel very blessed to think that I am now able to pass that along.  And, I encourage you to share with others- not by words but by your actions.  God is everywhere in everyone who shows kindness and love to others.
 James 2:14-17
¹⁴ What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? ¹⁵ Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. ¹⁶ If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? ¹⁷ In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.