Matthew 6:1-6

While I completed my Ph.D., money was tight because I finished the program without student loans. There were weeks in which having enough food was a challenge, so I learned creative ways to cook low-cost, nutritious meals.

Our department’s graduate studies coordinator, Bonnie, often privately helped struggling graduate students. One day, I mentioned to Bonnie that money was especially tight that week. I was astonished when she wordlessly took her lunch from the office fridge and gave the entire meal to me.

When I reflect on that moment, I remember someone who enacted her spiritual convictions and helped others without expectation of recognition. Bonnie’s example taught me to look for ways to quietly give every day with a grateful heart.

Prayer: Open my eyes to the everyday needs around me, and lead me to ways I can quietly help others by using the talents and other gifts You’ve given to me.

                                                                                 —Teresa Heinz Housel