A Loaf of Bread

This is the story of a man who was actively aware of his needs, and it allowed him to be a joyful and generous giver.

This man was a little rough around the edges. He had lived a hard life and was seen as a little different by people in his community. He regularly visited his old Cub leader, and he was hired to cut the Cub leader’s lawn. He never came quite when he was expected, but the arrangement worked out well for both of them.

One week, when he came to mow the lawn, he brought a loaf of bread with him. Someone had given it to him knowing that he did not have a lot of extra income. The man knew he would not be able to eat the whole loaf of bread, so he brought it to his old Cub leader, who lived with his wife and two grandchildren and often had visitors stop by for lunch.

His offering was a simple loaf of bread that probably only cost a couple of dollars, but the thought and care represented in the gift made it invaluable.

It is important for us to regularly take a step back and evaluate what we are giving. It is just as important to take stock of the spirit with which we are serving people.

We are all blessed by the unique skills, abilities, and resources that enrich our community of faith when they are offered with a glad and generous heart.

Breaking bread gladly—discerning what we need and what we can give—is part of what it means to be a community. Who needs the loaf of bread you have?

See you in church!