By Peter Kennedy
“Everything is permissible”—but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible”—but not everything is constructive. Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others.” – 1 Corinthians 10:23-24
On May 1, 2021, Westchester (New York) police officers Cartwright and Velez were dispatched to a Dollar Tree store after a call for a possible shoplifting.
After the store manager directed the officers to the person of interest, they approached the man and realized he was homeless and “just looking for socks,” police said.
Officer Cartwright consulted with the manager and decided the best possible outcome would be to buy the man the socks he was allegedly trying to steal.
“I’ll tell you what, I’ll buy you a couple pairs of socks, but you gotta stop stealing,” the officer said.
He told the store associate he’s going to pay for over two dozen pairs of socks before asking the man which color socks he wanted.
“Listen, I know how important it is to have a nice pair of socks, especially when you’re out runnin’ around,” the officer said.
Officer Velez said: “Swing by headquarters, we can get you some information…at least get you a bed and a shower. I know with COVID, it’s tough.”
Never grow tired of doing good to others. Today in prayer, ask Jesus to increase your love for others and to seek their good.
“To have a right to do a thing is not at all the same as to be right in doing it.” – G.K. Chesterton
God’s Word: “Each of you should look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others.” – Philippians 2:4
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