AN UNEXPECTED HONOR
For almost forty years, Marilyn Hampton worked as a janitor in a Texas school district. To her surprise, one of those schools now bears her name. But she didn’t earn this honor through outstanding research breakthroughs, involvement in historic events, or donating money to the school. Her contribution was something quieter. If a student couldn’t afford school supplies, Marilyn took it upon herself to provide them. Or if a student forgot material for a project, she’d run to the store immediately. Marilyn was even known to break out a sewing machine to repair torn clothing for students. She served the students from her heart and didn’t need impressive accolades. Yet she had the honor of a school named after her. She cared for others and allowed their needs to interrupt her day-to-day life.
AN UNEXPECTED KING
After parting from Saul for the last time, Samuel comes to the town of Bethlehem. He arranges to make a sacrifice and ensures that the family of Jesse will be in attendance. As each of Jesse’s sons approaches, Samuel is privately asking whether God has chosen them to be Israel’s next king. Samuel is looking at height and appearances, but God has better criteria: the heart. In all, seven sons pass before Samuel, but none have God’s approval to be anointed king. At Samuel’s insistence, Jesse sends for the youngest—a boy who had not even been considered. David arrives, and his appearance is as attractive as his brothers. God chooses David to be king, and Samuel anoints him.
Questions
- Are there any streets, schools, or other parts of your town that are named after a famous person? Who?
- What kinds of people do you think should be honored in that way?
- What traits does God look for that we can’t always see?