WEST ASIA — A mall full of shoppers distracted Crossworld worker Andrea’s boys from their meal in the food court. As Andrea and her friend Ilkana finished their conversation, they realized the boys had hardly touched their food.

“Don’t waste it,” Ilkana said. “Take it home to eat later.”

“Why don’t we wrap it up and look for someone who needs it?” Andrea suggested.

“I never would have thought of that. It sounds like a great idea!”

They left the mall and began to walk around the city while they talked about life and family. Just before they stepped into a taxi to go home, they saw an elderly woman begging beside the street.

“Look, Ilkana,” Andrea said. “We can give the food to this woman. Will you do the talking?”

So Ilkana spoke with the woman and handed her the free meal. Then they said goodbye and went home.

The following week when Andrea and Ilkana got together again, Ilkana spoke about that moment.

“I told everyone in my family about how you and your family take care of the poor — and in such a simple way like giving away your leftovers!” Ilkana said. “Our religion tells us things we are supposed to do, but I have never seen anyone do them like you. Your family lives
the way we are taught. You are generous.”

Andrea couldn’t help but thank God that Ilkana had noticed something different in her family. Thank You, Lord, that Your way of living is good, Andrea prayed, and that others see You in our actions.