2-minute devotion for Thursday, 1/29/26
Teaching in public schools for 22 years opened my eyes to the reality of some kids’ pain. Father is in prison, or mom is on drugs, this girl possibly sex-trafficked, children come to school hungry, and on and on it goes.
One thing I will never forget is the girl in the Valvoline shirt. I spotted her in the cafeteria one day. What must it be like to be in Junior High and have nothing better to wear than a “Valvoline Oil Change” shirt and a shoddy skirt?
I remember how my mother always made sure I had nice clothes. I never remember being embarrassed by what I wore to school. How must this young teen feel?
Once, I had a 12-year-old student who always had the shabbiest clothes and shoes. We felt so bad for her. One year, before the start of school, someone bought her some cute new clothes and gave them to her anonymously. I don’t know what happened to them, but she never wore any of it. My guess is her mother sold them or took them back to the store for the money.
There are children and adults all around us who need kindness. They may not cross our path, but they aren’t far away. My prayer is that we will not shut out their cries for help, but be the ones who hear Jesus’ command and obey.
“…the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Galatians 5:14 ESV
“One thing I know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve.” Albert Schweitzer
In His Love, Cindy
Would you like to learn more about Jesus? See my page Who Is Jesus?
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who love you.” Psalm 122:6 NASB
All Scripture is from the NIV unless stated otherwise.
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Real Christian Women 
Thank you for sharing this thoughtful post Cindy. It reminded me of the times I have met people in desperate need over the years; I often remember them, and it makes me grateful for how God has blessed me. One was a man whom I met in the unemployment office, he had the exactly same name as me and was in rags, dirty and smelly. We were worlds apart but God taught me about His grace in such meetings. God bless you today sister 🙏
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Wow! Meeting this other Alan must have had a huge impact on you. “There but for the grace of God go I.” comes to mind.
I am praying for the people that are without power. I thank God through out the day that I still have power. It is solid ice here (near Nashville, TN). I have never seen anything like it! I have a lot to be thankful for. I know that. God bless you today, Alan! Thank you for sharing that story. 🙏 It inspires me to write! (as you often do) 👩💻
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I didn’t explain it well…the guy was more than Alan, he was also another Kearns!!
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It does change the conversation from, “Can you believe those kids!” to, “How can I make a difference?”
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That’s right. And there are small things we can do. Your comment reminds me of my post, Finding Your Starfish. Thank you for adding your inspiring thoughts. Blessings, Pastor Pete!
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Wonderful, Powerful and Heartbreaking… A great reminder to see, love, and serve with open hearts. Let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth. – 1 John 3:18
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Amen! Thank you for sharing your thoughts. God bless you and your family, Willie! 🙏
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Amen 🙌
God Bless you and yours 🙌
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Substituting for schools in my area has really opened my eyes to all types of scenarios…as a result my heart has really been opened too. 🙏 Lord help these children, their families, and those within their influence…may kindness abound. Amen.
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Amen! We may not see the poor and needy, but they are not far away. God bless you, Alicia. Thank you for spreading God’s love. ❤️
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