Who Taught You To Tie Your Shoes?

“Not one of them grows tired or stumbles, not one slumbers or sleeps; not a belt is loosened at the waist, not a sandal strap is broken” Isaiah 5:27

    My aunt taught me to tie my shoes when I was a little boy. Over the years I have tied my shoes thousands of times and I have not forgotten my aunt’s kindness all those years ago.

    I doubt my aunt even remembers teaching me to tie my shoes, but thanks to her I have been able to put on my shoes everyday with tightened laces. I have traveled many roads and trodden many paths because of her help and act of kindness to a boy struggling with his shoe laces.

    Little things can mean much and can add up over time. Little acts of kindness or generosity can mean far more than we realize and do much good that we do not account for.

    I once talked to a lady who went on a missionary trip to India. She told me of the poverty, difficult conditions, and about showing love to the little children there. My guess is that those kids will never forget the kind lady from America who cared for them and showed them loving kindness.

    We may never be missionaries to India or to any other country. Yet I believe we can teach someone to “tie their shoes”. And through small acts of kindness we can be a blessing to others far more than we realize.

    Too often we are focused on our limitations brought about by our inability or lack of skills. Perhaps we should consider the small ways we might bless others or show some little act of kindness. It could have big benefits for someone else.

    Let’s not allow our limitations to define us, but rather find ways to bless people. Even if only through prayer, a kind word, or a generous act, we can be fruitful despite our limitations.

    Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for the many acts of kindness that have come our way, and for giving us opportunities to show kindness to others. Amen.