Clean Hearts

TODAY: Remember this poem by Art Murray as you pass a stranger:
Lord, I pray, teach me to smile.
A smile can be seen for many a mile.
So often a smile can brighten a day
For a lonely heart in life’s pathway.
So far a candle throws its beams
And covers so well life’s broadest seams.
A smile can do much to lighten a heart.
Teach me to smile and do my part.

“Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.”

For the last four months I’ve been going to meetings of an organization for girls in grades 4-6 called Little Women. We meet at the Church of the Epiphany in Herndon and have lots of fun going on retreats and sleepovers.
I chose this passage because our leader, Mrs.Glor, picked this for us to memorize. Her lesson based on this scripture was particularly meaningful. She talked about how to clean your heart of sin and purify yourself. She also assured us that God always keeps his promises, so we should try not to contaminate ourselves with sin.

As I returned home that night, I connected that lesson with Easter. God kept his promise to the people. On the third day he brought Jesus back to life. He was showing us that after this world, everyone will have eternal life. Ever since, we have been purified, and nothing can contaminate body and spirit or take away the promise that God fulfilled.

— Stephanie LeBolt, age 9

Samaritan in the New World

On Monday, I pass you on the street. Your head is hunched and the expression on your face is gloomy. Depressed. Your clothes are ragged and torn. Your shoes have holes in them. I could manage a simple wave, but I don’t. I keep walking, paying no attention to you.

On Tuesday, I pass you on the street. I stop and turn around. I look at your dirty clothes and broken-down shoes. I give thanks to God for all that He has given me. Then I walk up to you. I hug you, even though you are a complete stranger. I give you some money, to buy new clothes. I invite you to my home, and let you stay overnight. I introduce you to God.

The difference is amazing. America has come together in this time of tragedy, this new, post-September 11 world. The people of this country have learned what it means to be true Americans. We have become more loving, more caring. We have become more generous and giving. We now truly understand what it means to lose; what it means to give; what it means to receive; what it means to reach out to help anyone that needs a loving heart; and, above all, what it means to be a true Samaritan.

We have grown closer to God, truly realizing what it means to be poor in possessions but rich in faith and everything important. We are Americans.

We are truly blessed.

— Jodi LeBolt, age 12