Elevated Friday, April 3rd, 2020

Happy Elevated Friday! Today we highlight a story of generosity in a time when we are all in need. Last week in Minnesota, Dr. Sarosh Janjua was pulled over by a state trooper for speeding. As she handed over her license, she explained that she flies to Minnesota from Boston once a month to do cardiology work at local hospitals in the area. As is usual, the officer took her license back to his patrol car and ran her information. Upon returning, he told her that speeding was very irresponsible of her, especially because she would take up additional resources if she got in an accident and would then not be in a position to help patients. Expecting a ticket following that stern talking-to, the officer let her off with a warning. Then, as he extended his hand to give her back her license, Janjua noticed that also in his hand were five medical face masks. The masks were from that officer’s personal supply. Janjua said, “This complete stranger, who owed me nothing and is more on the front lines than I am, shared his precious masks with me, without my even asking.” This officer’s gift to Janjua truly exemplified not only forgiveness but, more importantly, the complete selflessness that Jesus taught.

Jesus taught many things and explained many complex ideas through parables, but in one particular case in his ministry, he spoke clearly and left nothing for interpretation. The Book of Mark captures the following instance, “Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.” This pandemic is stretching all of us in different ways, but those of us who have the means to make it through it are called to give to those who cannot. We are called to be selfless all the time, but in times like these, we must go even further. Today, find ways to help others in need, whether they ask for it or not.

“Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.” – Mark 12:41-44 NIV

Original Article:

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