Doing more than is expected is a powerful way to show someone that you love him. When you do more than others expect, it will probably be remembered for a long time. This happened to me one day.
I was driving a group of friends to the Basic Seminar that was being held at a Mennonite church in Holmes County, Ohio, about an hour’s drive from our home.
On Saturday the seminar lasts all day and, for various reasons, I would have to leave that morning without any food and without any money.
When you do more than others expect, it will probably be remembered for a long time.
I was a little frustrated that I would have to go all day without eating, but I consoled myself with the thought that I could fast, which would allow me to concentrate more fully on the rich teaching that I would receive. It was a beautiful day and the drive was pleasant through countryside that is dear to my heart. The company was good. I enjoyed conversation with my friends about the things of the Lord as we drove.
When we arrived, I found my place and settled in to enjoy the seminar. The morning passed swiftly and I noticed no hunger. When the noon hour came, I went to the van to spend some time alone with the Lord. On the church grounds was a hill crowned with a giant maple tree. In the shade of the tree, people began to spread quilts and open large picnic baskets. Out came the food, and my resolve to fast began to wane. I watched the Amish and Mennonite moms draw meals from baskets, and I knew it would be impossible to concentrate on the Lord with this feast going on in front of me.
I started the van and began driving around the village of Berlin. I found the Christian bookstore and spent some time browsing the shelves of books. I have loved books since I was a child. One of my favorite places on earth is a good bookstore. After standing there for a while, I sensed someone behind me and felt a hand on my back. I turned and was shocked to see my wife, Lois, standing there.
“What are you doing here?” I asked.
She smiled. I looked down into her deep brown eyes. She said, “I couldn’t stand the thought of you going hungry so I brought you some money.” My heart welled up with love for her at that moment. We ate lunch together, and I thanked her for driving so many miles just to make sure I had lunch. We kissed each other goodbye; then I went back to the seminar and she made the hour-long trip back home.
Two things stand out in my mind as I remember that day. First, the fact that Lois would know I was hungry and care enough to drive two hours just so I would not have to go without food. Second, that when she arrived at the church and saw I was not there, she knew exactly where to look for me.
I am a wealthy man. I have a wife who both knows me and loves me. I know she loves me because she is willing to “go the extra mile” to show it.
Written by Pastor Ken Pierpont
