I love human interest stories
about people who make a difference. I
believe that everyone of us have been placed here on this planet by the Lord to
influence others in a positive way for God.
Recently I came across such a story in my reading and I wish to share it
to inspire my readers to action.
During the 1930`s and 40`s, a
Russian immigrant came to North America to earn money and return to his
family. This man found a good job and
later became a Christian in a small church in an eastern city. It was during this time that the war in
Europe engulfed his country and he could not return home to family and
friends. He chose not to despair but to
touch others where he lived. This
decision is one that many in that church and city would never forget.
The first thing he did was to
start a bible class for young people. He
love for young people was well known in fact so much that he became a mentor an
example to many of the young people in
his local church. This class encouraged
scripture memorization and prayer. He
taught manners and ethics to this class and they became model students and
examples to their peers and parents.
To help the young people develop a
love for music, he visited local pawn shops purchasing dozens of unclaimed,
trombones, violins, guitars, trumpets and banjo`s His plan was simple, each young person could
claim an instrument but with these stipulations. First, they had to memorize and recite certain
passages of scripture. Secondly, they
had to agree to take lessons and play the instrument for two years. Today many would consider these hard
stipulations but success only comes from commitment, discipline and hard
work. Only the foolish believe they can
get success without effort or cost.
Many of the young people of the
church agreed and so this man arranged at his own expense a teacher to give
lessons to the potential orchestra. Many
young people took piano lessons and became excellent musicians. They were also learning many life lessons
through this man`s example such as generosity, patience, unconditional love and
true humility.
The band was soon making a joyful
noise using the instruments they were only learning to play. The local church of course endure this
attempt with kindness and gratitude because many could not afford this
privilege without outside help.
Eventually the band became so good they were invited to local functions,
community events and other churches to play.
It was a time of growth and development for each participant. Their hard work and discipline bore fruit in
ways they could never have imagined. In
a time of war, rations and personal sacrifice they learned true worth does not
come from what we get but in what we give.
Eventually this mentor, role
model, friend and example to the young people obtained a visa to return home to
his family and friends. It was a very
sad time on that last day he was in church.
Many a young person testified about his kindness, generosity and
love. Many tears were shed that
day. His final words went like this.
"I stand before you today a richer man in every sense then when I
came. Your love and kindness will stay
with me as I leave for my home. I came
here an unbeliever, I leave as a genuine Christian. The Jesus I found here I will take back to my
home land and the little I have done here, more will I do when I go home. Thank you for all you have done and mean to
me. God Bless." He was never heard from again. Yet the memory of his love and kindness was
never forgotten by those whose lives he touched.
My question for myself and you is,
"are we touching people around us in a positive way?" Will we be remembered fondly by those around
us? Lastly, will people be glad we were
part of their lives or not? My prayer is
that we will all make a difference for good in our world's. I trust that is your prayer as well.
No comments:
Post a Comment