The Meal

Claybourne Elder is not a typical Broadway actor.

He and his four-year-old son Bo make a monthly date at a diner for breakfast. While eating, Bo watches others and finally says, “That’s him.”

Then, Elder quietly pays for the stranger’s meal.

It started when he was a starving actor. He watched a play in cheap seats. When a stranger came to him and told him, “You look like you were enjoying the show more than the people in the expensive seats.” The man gave him $200 to buy good seats at a sold-out Broadway musical.

From that moment, Elder seeks out people to show silent kindness. He gives away tickets to people who cannot afford them.

Paul knew what Elder had learned. He reminds the Ephesians:

“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)

Christ showed us the ultimate kindness. Indeed, we can offer a little kindness to others because of God’s gift.

Elder keeps giving away tickets and paying for meals. He received, so he provides.

Perhaps, we can, too.