Beyond loyalty

Several years ago when my father was very ill and I was traveling a lot between my apartment and my parents’ home, my friend Stuart would feed my cat. That may not sound like a big deal, but I know it was a hassle for him to get to my place every day, especially since he took the train. For me, his kindness meant one less thing to worry about during a time of great stress.

After my dad died, I stayed with Mom for another week to help with all the things that needed doing. Stuart faithfully fed my cat that week, but he went a step beyond. When I finally got back to my place, exhausted, I was greeted by fresh groceries in the fridge. Stuart had shopped for me so I would not have to go back out on my first day home. That felt like extravagant loyalty to me at that difficult time in my life.

When have you experienced extravagant loyalty? Can you think of anyone who could use such a demonstration of care?

May you rest in the loyalty, security, and recognition of your friends, family, and God, then share those gifts with others.

This message was adapted from “Beyond Loyalty” written by Kate Sprutta Elliott that first appeared in the October 2008 issue of Lutheran Woman Today (now Gather) magazine.