"DEVOTION IS MORE THAN A PRAYER"

9/3.13                                      

Today I'd like to share a story from a delightful book which my son gave to me called "What My cat taught me About Life (Meditations for Cat Lovers)" by Niki Anderson. I hope you enjoy it.

  

                                                            THOMAS

Thomas was surnamed "the church cat." He lived with the Williams family, next door to a small community church. The Williams worshipped at the family church across town, but Thomas chose the congregation within walking distance. He Kept no calendar, yet never failed to be present and on time for both Sunday School and church services every Sabbath.

Thomas wanted to serve, but he didn't know where he fit. The Williams had never dubbed him a talker, so he concluded he would not be the best volunteer for teaching Sunday School. Since he was not gainfully employed, he was not able to contribute to the collection. Thomas could have offered his pest control services but he declined, choosing to honor the church mice who enjoyed their sanctuary in the church crawl space.

The ministry Thomas decided upon came quite naturally. He noticed that each parishioner appreciated his greetings along the walkway leading to the stained glass doors. Their smiles, strokes, and responses of "Good morning, Kitty" assured Thomas he had found a place to serve. Hospitality was a skill he had learned already. At home he greeted all callers with a welcome rub and a high tailed escort to his front door. Greeting was something he did well, so he offered it to God.

"One thing I know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve."

~~~~ Albert Schweitzer

Shared by Cathy Friberg

Thomas was a great example of faithfulness and of being Spirit Led. We may feel that our talents and contributions are small, however, only God knows the impact our service will have on the lives of others.

St. Therese, a Carmelite nun in France in the 1800's embraced a philosophy called "The Little Way." She encouraged people to manifest their love for God by committing fervently to simple every day tasks and by humbly serving those we meet in our everyday lives. What a refreshing and inspiring concept amidst our complex,indulgent, and self seeking modern day secular society.

By Cathy Friberg