I was in for a surprise when I received a call from my friend yesterday. “James, I know this is very last minute but can you help me invite 20 children from needy families? Pullman would like to treat them to a scrumptious buffet,” Pat requested.
My heart warmed as her words resonated in my mind. “Of course, I can. Give me an hour to get back to you,” I replied.
Opened for business in April 2016, the prestigious Pullman Waterfront is the only international 5-star hotel in Miri known for its warm hospitality, excellent services and facilities. I was told by Pat that the hotel, during this Yuletide season, would be hosting a Christmas buffet for the first time for underprivileged children, as well as the kids from Methodist Children’s Home.
I quickly contacted Pastor Nicholas Tan of Gereja Methodist Tudan, telling him the invitation. He thanked me and asked for time to make arrangement. Shortly, the good shepherd called to confirm that the church would be sending 17 children, accompanied by 2 adults.
With Christmas just 4 days away, Pullman’s generosity has reminded me of 2 Cor 8:7 (KJV): Therefore, as ye abound in everything, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.
Witnessing Pullman’s grace of giving has reminded me that generosity meets needs and glorifies Jesus.
Before 5 p.m., Pastor called again. Can we add in two more kids because we had a short count, he asked. In haste, I told him no because we had confirmed the attendance figure with the hotel already. After the phone call, my heart felt heavy. I called up Pat again and told her the Pastor’s request. Why not, she said without hesitation, count them in!
Pastor was elated when I relayed him the latest update. Unbeknownst to me, Pastor subsequently revealed that he would be forced to make a difficult choice of leaving two kids out had the host was not magnanimous.
I’m truly glad. An act of generosity given and extended – Christ was glorified!
Lord Jesus, you meet our needs in surprising ways sometimes. Continue to use us often to do that for others.