JUNE 18 – A True Gent

“You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE. Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you” - 1 Peter 5-7

“Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith” – Galatians 6:9-10

What is it that makes a man great? - makes a man a gentleman? One of the greatest castles in England is Arundel Castle, seat of the Dukes of Norfolk. This particular Duke of Norfolk, though a member of the aristocracy, was also a man of humility, who was known in the vicinity for his shabby appearance and friendliness.

One day, he happened to be at the local railway station, when a young Irish girl got off a train, carrying a very heavy bag. She was heading towards the Castle where she was to be employed as a maid. The castle was approximately a mile from the station. The Duke watched her as she approached a porter and offered him a shilling (5 pence today), to carry her bag to the castle. The porter, with a surly attitude wasn't impressed, and refused. The Duke stepped forward, picked up the bag, and together he and the girl walked the mile to the castle, talking as they went. Arriving there, he accepted her shilling and said goodbye. Can you imagine her surprise and embarrassment when, the next day, she met her employer and realised just who had carried her bag, and accepted her shilling tip! 

A true story about a great nobleman that teaches -

It's never safe to judge a man on his appearance

A great man is always a thoughtful man,

There's grace in taking as well as giving,

A truly great man doesn't flaunt his place or prestige

It's only unimportant people who think how important they are.

There's nothing in this world that is a surer sign of a small mind, than someone complaining they haven't been given “their place.” It's only little people who think how great they are. In the last analysis, to the truly great man, no act of service is humiliating – no task below his dignity.

Jesus above all men, whilst on earth, demonstrated true greatness, so -

Do all the good you can,

By all the means you can,

In all the ways you can,

In all the places you can,

At all the times you can,

To all the people you can,

As long as you can.

(Adapted from William Barclay)

The Gaither Vocal Band brings us today's music - “You Don't Love God if You Don't Love Your Neighbour.” Click on the picture to listen.