25 Cents Worth

The following is a short story I received in an email. Normally I don't like getting all those forwarding messages from everyone, but this one caught my attention. It has to do with a preacher but it really has to do with each and every one of us. We set an example by our actions. People notice what we do and how we act. Hopefully we influence those around us in a positive way and encourage them to come closer to Christ, more loving and caring in their lives. As St. Francis of Assisi said, "Preach always the Gospel and if necessary, use words.

Deacon Greg Beckel


Several years ago, a preacher from out-of-state accepted a call to a church in Houston, Texas.  Some weeks after he arrived, he had an occasion to ride the bus from his home to the downtown area.

When he sat down, he discovered that the driver had accidentally given him a quarter too much change.


As he considered what to do, he thought to him, "You'd better give the quarter back.  It would be wrong to keep it."  Then he thought, "Oh, forget it, it’s only a quarter.  Who would worry about this little amount? Anyway, the bus company gets too much fare; they will never miss it.  Accept it as a 'gift from God' and keep quiet."

When his stop came, he paused momentarily at the door, and then he handed the quarter to the driver and said, "Here, you gave me too much change."

The driver, with a smile, replied, "Aren't you the new preacher at the church over on Oak? I have been thinking a lot lately about going somewhere to worship.  I just wanted to see what you would do if I gave you too much change.  I'll see you at church on Sunday."

When the preacher stepped off of the bus, he literally grabbed the nearest light pole, held on, and said, "Oh God, I almost sold your Son for a quarter."

Our lives are the only Bible some people will ever read. This is a really scary example of how much people watch us as Christians and will put us to the test!  Always be on guard and remember that you carry the name of Christ on your shoulders when you call yourself "Christian."

Watch your thoughts; they become words.
Watch your words; they become actions.
Watch your actions; they become habits.
Watch your habits; they become character.
Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.