CREDIT FOR HIS PENNY

Pacific Press Publishing Company · MOUNTAIN VIEW, CALIFORNIA · Jan 9, 1907

CREDIT FOR HIS PENNY.

A CERTAIN laird of Fife, well-known for his parsimonious habits, whilst his substance increased did not increase his liberality, and his weekly contribution to the church collection never exceeded the sum of one penny. One day, however, by mistake, he dropped into the plate by the door a five-shilling-piece, but discovering his error before he was seated in his pew, hurried back, and was about to replace the silver coin with his customary penny when the elder in attendance cried out:

"Stop, laird; ye may put in what ye like, but maun tak naething out!"

The laird, finding his explanation went for nothing, at last said, "Aweel, I suppose I'll get credit for it in heaven."

"Na, na, laird," said the elder, "ye'll only get credit for the penny."

There are many people who hope to get credit for generosity or charitable feelings who give only to make a show or to be in the fashion. It is what the heart gives that decides the value of our gifts.—Selected.