Pay it Forward

So the adventure begins (actually it has already begun) and I spent this past weekend visiting Wesley Seminary in D.C. During my visit I was scheduled to interview for merit-based financial aide. In all, the visit went very well and the financial aide office has agreed to reward me with a substantial amount of assistance, approximately 2/3 of my tuition will be paid for.

To be honest it is all a bit overwhelming. I have discussed the idea with many of my friends, colleagues and family members the idea of blessings. My common question is "why me?" I have always been puzzled as to why so many great things are happening to me when I feel there are those who are more deserving.

This question, of course, is part of a greater mystery of faith. That is, why things occur the way they do. I have read many different perspectives and have had many discussions, many of which make sense to me. What needs to be remembered, however, is that in the end this is broken thought and beyond our understanding. In the end, the scenario remains the same regardless of our conclusions. Thus, we need to take these blessings and use them to further our Mission.

In the film "Pay it Forward" the main character creates a project for himself in which he does something big for someone he doesn't know. Then, that person will do the same for the next person and so on. I believe this is part of our calling, not only as Christians, but also as people in general. You do not need to believe in Christ, or God for that matter, to take these initiatives and help those less fortunate.

I have been blessed with many things and I want to use this post to remind myself to take these blessings and pass them on. To become a blessing for someone else, to pay it forward.