How to Save a Life

Rom. 15: 2 Let each of us please his neighbour for his good

Have you looked into your mirror this morning? Go back and take another look. If you should meet someone today with the same expression you saw when you looked into your mirror, what sort of impression would be left on you? Look in the mirror again and smile, really smile at yourself. Beautiful, isn’t it?

Many years ago, one morning, a young lady rose from her bed in the still dark hours of the morning and hurried towards a bridge. She had come to the big city to make a better life for herself, but things had not worked out well for her. She was friendless, jobless, penniless and hungry. In despair, she decided to end her misery by taking her own life. Her life felt as dark as the dark water flowing below and she prepared to climb the rail and let herself go. But suddenly, she heard footsteps. She quickly drew back because she did not want anyone to see her and raise an alarm. A man appeared, wrapped in his warm overcoat, walking briskly towards her. He came alongside, saw her and his face broke into a warm friendly smile. Just a smile! But it did something to her.

The man passed along and disappeared in the mist, going about his business; but a miracle had happened. That smile had reached her heart. There were nice people in this city after all. She turned around and walked away slowly, back to her cold, empty apartment, but it did not seem so hopeless any more. That young lady lived to become a well-known and well loved philanthropist and many people were helped because of her love and generosity.

As you go out today, will you try to be nice; to bring pleasure to someone? You may not have material things today to help a person, but you can smile. Cultivate a warm sincere friendly smile. It is a service that our Lord asks us for. You never can tell what an encouraging smile can do. That man never knew that his smile had saved a life and preserved a wonderful gift to the world. One day in Heaven you might meet someone who says, “I am here because you smiled at me”.

Dear Lord, thank You for Your wonderful gift of cheerfulness. May Your joy shine out from me today to lift the spirit of someone who is sad and downhearted, in Jesus name, amen.