All of our works and deeds are recorded in the Book Of Life

While working as a police officer in a major city a number of years ago, I began a custom of seeking out the poor to help them have a good Christmas. Each year, my tradition included contacting a local pastor, obtaining the names and addresses of two families who would not be enjoying Christmas due to financial problems,and buying enough food for each family to insure there would be enough for at least two feasts. I normally purchased one ham and two turkeys for each family plus all of the accompanying foods, snacks and drinks to make for a great day. I also provided enough money so the head of the household (normally a single mother) could buy a tree and presents for the children. During one Christmas season, the store where I shopped had only three turkeys and I needed one more. I decided to purchase the last turkey at a store located in the ghetto area where I would be distributing the gifts. I parked my car in the parking lot and began walking around to the front door of the store. As I passed the dumpster area, I saw an elderly Black woman digging in the dumpster, apparently searching for food. She appeared to be at least 80 years old, had deep wrinkled skin, white hair and moved slowly. She wore a simple cotton dress that seemed too thin for the cool evening weather. I reached into my wallet, took out some money, and folded it so she could not see the denomination. I walked up to her , she had her back turned as she continued sifting through the dumpster, and I said, "Ma'm, I have something for you." She turned around slowly, stretched out her hand, took the money without saying a word, and again turned to continue digging in the dumpster. I turned to walk away, took several steps, and had the strongest urge to see the woman again. I turned around and she was not there! I ran the several steps back to the dumpster to see if she had fallen in. She was not there! I looked under the dumpster and around it but still she was not there. In a moment, I began sobbing uncontrolably. I knew that God had sent one of His Angels to let me know my charity was pleasing to Him. By: John P. Wabl

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