Ruth 2:20 “‘The LORD bless him!’ Naomi said to her daughter-in-law. ‘He has not stopped showing his kindness to the living and the dead.’ She added, ‘That man is our close relative; he is one of our guardian-redeemers.’”

Naomi expressed appreciation for the kindness from wealthy Boaz. She and Ruth were in a desperate situation, and he came to their rescue.

Principle: Financial help to needy, worthy people makes a statement about our values. Kindness is godliness.

The late luxury hotelier and real estate billionaire Leona Helmsley was not kind. She earned her title as the “Queen of Mean.” Her final life-description statement was a $12 million trust fund for her dog who will be buried next to her. She allocated several million dollars for her brother to take care of the dog. She also left $3 million for upkeep of her mausoleum to be washed or steam-cleaned at least once a year. To a couple of her grandchildren, she left nothing. That was Helmsley’s way of taking care of the living and the dead.

Our way with money reflects our character. Be kind to the needy as you see them today and leave a Godly legacy. For the future, make a strong statement about your life-values in a trust or will. Do not delay in getting this done. The date of your memorial service may come as a surprise, but the fact that it is a praise service should not be a surprise.

Discussion:

1. Who do you know who is in a desperate situation today? How could you show them kindness?

2. When were you in a desperate situation and someone showed you kindness?

3. Do you have a living trust? Don’t delay. This is an important way you can show kindness to your loved ones.