Melina Salazar learned firsthand the value of being kind to one's fellow man.
Melina is the Texas woman who, at the close of 2007, was given $50,000 and a 2000 Buick. The money and the car belonged to 89-year-old Walter "Buck" Swords, a regular patron at the Luby's cafeteria where Salazar worked as a waitress.
For nearly seven years, Ms. Salazar put up with what was apparently one of the most cantankerous and cranky customers one could ever imagine. She put on a smile and showed remarkable restraint for all that time. Mr. Swords was most favorably impressed.
Swords died in July of 2007, but it was just days before Christmas in 2007 that Salazar received word that she had been placed in Mr. Swords' will.
There is a lesson here for all of us. Being kind to those who are kind is no great feat. Is that not what Jesus said?
For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?
Matthew 5:46, ESV
Yes, part of loving one's enemy involves self-restraint (a big part!). Bringing one's emotions under control is a sign of spiritual maturity (Galatians 5:22-23) and goes a long way toward becoming a "peacemaker" (Matthew 5:9).
The "reward" of which Christ spoke in the verse above refers primarily to the heavenly reward. But every so often -- as in the case with Melina Salazar -- there may be an additional reward for one's kindness.
Be conscious of how kind you are to those around you today, and every day!
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