Brothers Help Change Lives
“Amen I say to you, unless you be converted, and become as little children, you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3) I have often pondered the depth of this scripture, but never felt as though I fully understood it. Even now, if I had to imagine myself as a child, images of tantrums and disobedience would come to the forefront of my memories. Hardly something Jesus wanted us to aspire to. And yet, there are children out there who, having never read this scripture, fulfill it in their innocence.
Two brothers who have been such a witness to scripture are Philip and Joey Dotson. I have seen them over the past year bringing in food donations and even giving up gifts to help children who are less fortunate then them. Each time they walk through the doors they are beaming with pride and joy as they share cans of vegetables and meat with the poor.
“I want to hold the big can!” shouted the younger brother, Joey. Each can of food was given with such love and joy that it seemed more like a gift for them to donate food rather than a sacrifice.
Then I understood the simplicity in the act of giving. These kids trusted God with a childlike trust. They didn’t calculate the cost or consider the loss of not having additional toys to play with because of these gifts. They gave because they knew that the need was greater in a poor child than in themselves. And they trusted that in that same generosity of giving, God would take care of them.
It inspired me to want to give more freely, not just financially, but in little acts of faith each day. “What if I gave up gifts for my birthday?” or “What I purchased the meal of the person behind me in the drive through at McDonald’s?” Could I possibly have the same joy as these two boys? The possibilities are endless. Thank you Philip and Joey for reminding us of the importance of trust and that the fruit of that faith in God is seen in works of mercy.