Lessons from Kids

Yesterday morning was a busy morning of errands for us.  After getting up by 8:00 am, we withdrew my check from work from the bank,  paid the water bill, shopped at two different dollar stores,  visited with friends, grabbed a quick lunch from Taco Bell, and headed to the park for a picnic.  In between Taco Bell and the park, we drove past a homeless man at a busy intersection.  He held a sign that said he had run out of gas and any amount would help.  He had a little, gray kitten on a leash.  My eleven-year old asked what he was doing.  I told my son that the man is homeless and is asking people to help him by giving money.  As we turned the corner, my nine-year old responded, "Well, don't you think we should help him?"

No questions asked about if he is worthy or unworthy.  No statements that he would probably just waste the money or is taking advantage of people.  Just, "Don't you think we should help him?"

Wouldn't the world be a different place if we followed the example set by kids instead of expecting them to think like we think?

For the record, we did turn around, and Nathanael got out of the car and handed the man $5.00.  I have to wonder what effect that had on the man as well, to see a boy of nine-years old caring enough to take the time to give him money when he needed it.

And He said: "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:3, NIV).