T. L. Cuyler: The Monk and His Act of Mercy

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When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” Luke 18:22

“I have heard of a monk who in his cell, had a glorious vision of Jesus revealed to him. Just then, a bell rang, which called him away to distribute loaves of bread among the poor beggars at the gate. He was sorely tried as to whether he should lose a scene so inspiring. He went to his act of mercy; and when he came back, the vision remained more glorious than ever.”

T. L. Cuyler in Dictionary of Burning Words of Brilliant Writers, compiled by Josiah Hotchkiss Gilbert (New York: Wilbur B. Ketcham, 1895) 26.

Have you ever had a powerful time with God and desired to stay in that place?

The monk in this story could have passed on his act of mercy to enjoy more special time with God. But he stayed true to the task of distributing to those in need. The best part of the story is the climax. His time with God not only picked up where He left off but got even better.

What’s the lesson for us today related to our generosity?

We get up early to spend time with God not to stay in that place but to find true riches for sharing widely. The glorious times equip us for acts of mercy. When we watch Jesus on mission we see Him spend time with the Father and then go forth to distribute blessings.

Let’s be like the monk. Enjoy solitude with God and serve as a generous distributor.