Have a Smile : )

“If you see someone without a smile…give them one of yours.” – author unknown A simple proverb to keep in mind as we begin the morning with our family, interact with co-workers, students or neighbors, and end it by saying “good night” to the ones we love. Through the hours of the day do we have a smile to give away? Are we a miser with our smiles hoarding them to ourselves, or are we a smile philanthropist generously giving to all? How are we able to do this?

First, our smiles flow from the well spring in our heart. Is our heart full of God’s goodness, optimism, hope, love and joy? If so, smiles will become a natural part of who we are all throughout the day with plenty to spare. Others will notice. Second, to give someone a smile is to engage in an act of service. Service is to see a need and offer a hand of support, encouragement or assistance.

I remember learning how to roller skate as a seven-year-old, lacing up my skates with the disco ball lights swirling throughout the rink. John Denver belted out “Thank God, I’m a Country Boy” through the booming speakers as I wobbled to the wooden floor gripping the side rail. After a miserable lap, falling repeatedly and wishing I had a pillow on my backside, I was about ready to give up. After one embarrassing out-of-control spin, legs kicking out in all directions, I fell hard. Just then an angel appeared and offered her hand. My Aunt Julia, a few years older than myself, helped me up, took one arm and her friend took the other and they taught me how to skate. After a number of laps with their support and encouragement they let go…I was skating! I beamed with exhilaration as I joyfully skated in pace with the others making karate chops in the air to the song “Kung Fu Fighting”. I still love to skate.

Jesus taught that his whole purpose was to serve as he instructed his disciples in being great in God’s Kingdom.

Whoever wants to become great among you must serve the rest of you like a servant. 44 Whoever wants to become the first among you must serve all of you like a slave. 45 In the same way, the Son of Man did not come to be served. He came to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many people.” – Mark 10:43-45

To serve others is a key quality in being a follower of Christ to the point that one may not truly be following Christ unless they actively engage in service. We can serve in limitless ways to family, friends, co-workers, neighbors and even strangers. We can serve an individual or even join an organization or church that serves many. I am encouraged to see many friends giving away smiles as they serve others in Christ’s name by taking boys out camping, teaching kids Bible stories in homes, offering hope through prayer, counsel and support, cleaning out a friend’s basement, moving furniture, teaching English as a second language, or even bringing an elderly person to church. You serve within your church, you serve within your home, you serve within your schools, you serve within the workplace and you serve within your community. In your service, Christ’s love is extended and a smile is given.