Our Most Important Debt
A talented young American musician got the opportunity of his life when he was accepted as a student into a famous music school in Berlin. He was thrilled as he traveled to Europe. Excited that such a door had opened to him, he worked hard and word quickly got out about his talent and potential.
Disappointment, however, interrupted him when he ran out of money before finishing the course. But it happened that the great pianist, Ignace Paderewski, was visiting the area of the musical conservatory and heard about him. The veteran performer searched him out and loaned him enough to keep studying. With the help of this gift, the dedicated student developed into a successful performer.
Decades later, Paderewski did a concert in Boston. This time the American searched out his benefactor, with a check in hand to repay him for the original loan. It included the full amount with interest. The great pianist refused it, saying, “I don’t need it and don’t want it. You don’t need it now; so why don’t you hunt up another music student who is in the same straits in which you found yourself 40 years ago in Berlin, and lend it to him? Pass along the help I gave you. That is the best way to pay a debt, my friend.”
We all owe debts of gratitude and we should thank those who helped us whenever possible. But in addition to heartfelt words, the best way to say thank you is by passing along the blessings we have received, in practical ways. It will not take long to discover occasions to meet needs.
Our greatest reason for thanksgiving is salvation through Jesus Christ. The words of the hymn, “God Forgave My Sin,” remind us of the best way to thank God for such an awesome gift.
“Freely, freely, you have received
Freely, freely give.
Go in my name, and because you believe
Others will know that I live.”
One of the best ways to give thanks is to do kind deeds.
