Random Acts of Appreciation

Happy Monday to our CFC Family;

This morning, I came across a short video that deeply moved me so much that decided to share it on my Facebook page. It showed a young man handing out bouquets of flowers to elderly individuals, and each time, to the elderly women, he would kindly say, “To the most beautiful woman I’ve seen today.” Watching their reactions was truly heartwarming. You could see the joy and surprise light up their faces as they seemed to briefly revisit a long-forgotten chapter of their youth—like shy young girls receiving flowers for the very first time.

One woman, holding back tears, softly shared that these were the first flowers she had ever received. Her words hinted at a lifetime with few expressions of love, making this simple gesture all the more profound. In another moving moment, the young man approached an elderly gentleman in a wheelchair, dressed in a military uniform, medals still gleaming proudly on his chest. As he handed him the bouquet, he said, “Thank you for your service, sir. Your sacrifice is deeply appreciated.” The old soldier’s eyes filled with tears as he accepted the flowers, a quiet yet powerful testament to the enduring impact of kindness and the beauty of heartfelt appreciation.

In today’s fast-paced and often self-absorbed world, random acts of love and appreciation can feel like rare treasures. So many around us are quietly lonely, longing for connection, a kind word, or a gentle gesture of care. Yet, even the simplest expressions of compassion can leave a lasting mark on someone’s heart.

Scripture reminds us in Hebrews 13:16, “Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased”

Likewise, Proverbs 11:25 teaches us that; “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”

This month, as part of Pastor Appreciation Month, Lenise and I have been profoundly blessed by your thoughtfulness. The heartfelt cards, baked goods, homemade gifts, loaves of bread, cookies, gift cards, and even monetary gifts and lunches have touched us in ways that are difficult to share in words. What might seem small to some, carries immense meaning to the recipient. Each gesture, born of love and care, reminded us of the generosity and warmth that defines the special people of CFC.  And from the depths of our hearts, we want to say “Thank you” to everyone who took the time to bless us with such thoughtfulness.

As a church, I am continually humbled by the ways we already bring love to may lives in our community. Our JOY (Just Older Youth) dinners have been a shining example—offering fellowship, laughter, and encouragement to so many of our seniors. Similarly, our teams who faithfully serve at senior homes on several Sundays each month, bring more than worship; they bring hope, joy, and the message of Christ to those who might otherwise feel forgotten. These ministries reflect the heart of Jesus and the enduring power of genuine compassion.

Looking ahead, I believe God is calling us to continually discover new ways to love and serve those around us. This Christmas season, perhaps we can organize groups of all ages to go caroling at local senior homes, sharing the joy of Christ through song and fellowship. We might also prepare food baskets for needy families or volunteer at or local soup kitchen. Truth is, the smallest acts—a heartfelt song, a warm meal, a kind word, or a simple smile—can create ripple effects that touch both those who receive as well as  those who are doing the giving.

Jesus reminds us in Luke 6:38; “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

Truth is, whatever we pour out in love ultimately returns to bless the giver as well and that is a feeling that nothing else can satisfy!

Question:  What random acts of appreciation are you going to do this week to bless someone you may not even know?

Have a blessed week and we’ll see you Sunday!

Pastor Dan

Christian Fellowship Church

417 Hanover Street

Steinbach, MB R5G 0G0

Church office: 204-326-2228

http://christianfellowshipchurch.ca

daniel.krebs@steinbachcfc.org