Therefore all things whatsoever you would have people do to you, do even so to them; for this is the law and the prophets. (Matthew 7: 12)

I want to share with you a story of Dr. Albert Schweitzer, the famous missionary doctor who had spent his life helping the poor in Africa. This is a true story of this remarkable man.

Reporters and city officials gathered at a Chicago railroad station one afternoon in 1953. They were there to greet the doctor, who had won the 1952 Nobel Peace Prize. A few minutes after the train came to a stop, a giant of a man–six foot four–with bushy hair and a large mustache stepped from the train. Cameras flashed. City officials approached him with hands outstretched. Various ones began telling him how honored they were to meet him.

The man politely thanked them and then, looking over their heads, he asked if he could be excused for a moment. He quickly walked through the crowd until he reached the side of an elderly black woman who was struggling with two large suitcases. He picked up the bags and with a smile, escorted the woman to a waiting bus. After helping her aboard the bus, he wished her a safe journey,. Returning to the greeting party he apologized by saying, “I’m sorry I kept you waiting.”

In response to his actions, one member of the welcoming committee was heard to say in amazement and great admiration, “That’s the first time I ever saw a walking sermon!”

God of infinite love, may we be willing to forgo the praises of other humans in the interest of those less fortunate! May we be more like Jesus!