Today was a new experience. Some may not understand. But, today I walked without my shoes. A sacrifice of small proportion, but with a big message. At church today we talked about the organization Soles for Souls. We were asked to make a sacrifice for someone today. For someone in need of something that is plenty and expendable in our world.
Our shoes.
It was uncomfortable, but in a good way. See, I think it's good for us to get out of our comfort zones. For my momentary pain someone will gain a new look on life, comfort, or a sense of normalsy. I remember a recent conversation with a friend about Bethal Mall. She told me that often she would see a child she outfitted with shoes coming in the next year with the same pair he recieved the year before. Only now with holes and ill fitting. And most likely that child will be back there the next year in the same situation.
I cried as I saw the flurry of people taking off their shoes, leaving them on the alter, bringing their children into service to let them share, and the multitude of bare feet in the congregation. The generousity took my breath away.
I was tipped off by my husband that this may happen as he was running service today. So it was hard to wrap myself around. But, I had my stuff laid out for church and it didn't change. I didn't give away my best pair, though I would have. The feeling of wet gravel under my feet as I walked to the car was a memory that I will never forget.
I pray I will show my children how to sacrifice for others. I pray to look for everyday opportunities to do so...
Jesus Christ made the ultimate sacrifice for us. What kind of sacrifices will you make in His name?
7 comments:
I couldn't believe it when Jeff told us he was driving in his socks this afternoon. SO cool!
Courtney, that is BEAUTIFUL! Thank you for sharing!
Moving...
As Christians, we know that what we do (the sacrifices we make) rarely turn out to be sacrifices at all, but rather blessings that enrich our lives and fill our souls. Of course, it's too bad that sometimes we need a lot of prodding to make those "sacrifices".
You are such a good person. I'm glad I know you!
wow, such a neat way of giving to others..:) gave me chills reading your post this morning.. god bless you courtney, and your family! praise GOD!
So neat! What a great way to give to others. It makes me even more excited now about the coat give away!!
Very cool idea.
i called my mom yesterday after she had just gotten out of church and i said the normal "hey watcha doing?" and she said, "oh going out to eat w/ tom and marsha, but we have to go to their house to get shoes first." i was SOOO confused and then she explained! how awesome!! it gave me chills over the phone- i can only imagine being there in the middle of it!
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