Tampines Bus Interchange is really a crowded place. Initially, I tried approaching passengers who were leaving the station. Some obliged, others just smiled and walk away. As always, I would say, “Thank you.” I think I have spoken: “Thank you” that morning more than what I have said for the whole year, definitely more than 300 times.
Not many donated, and I was somewhat disappointed. What am I doing here? I could just put into my tin a hundred dollar and go home.
Then, an old lady who was pulling a trolley walked up to me and dropped a coin into my tin. I suddenly remembered Jesus' words: "Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury". My heart was so touched by her giving. A tear almost drop. I think I can understand how Jesus felt that day watching in the temple when the widow gave her tithes. This woman doesn’t need to give, yet she did. Silently, I said a prayer for her. “Lord, bless her giving. Give to her a hundred-fold, no, a thousand-fold of what she had given! Amen”.
Then a thought came to me. I will pray for those who give, … and those who don’t. For every donor, I said a prayer for them. For those who I approached but did not give, I also said a prayer for them. I prayed that those who did not give would have their hearts transformed to be a more gracious and kinder person, so that in future, they will be more compassionate.
At the end of it all (4 hours), I have learnt to be thankful and … prayerful.
