We lived in Wisconsin and we were preparing to travel home to Alabama to spend some time with our family. I went by the bank to cash a check and get some cash for the trip. After leaving the bank, I counted my money and discovered the teller at the drive-in window had given me a dime too much.
Knowing how strict banks were with accuracy from their employees, I drove back to the bank and gave the dime to the teller. She looked a little confused, but accepted it and thanked me.
Two weeks later we returned to Wisconsin and in the course of time I went back to the bank. The same teller was at the window and said to me, “I’ve been waiting for you. When I counted my money on the day you were last here, I was ten cents over what I was supposed to have. So, here is your dime.”
She and I formed a bond of casual friendship. I’ve never forgotten that day. I hope she hasn’t either.
“Let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream” (Amos 5:24)
“Justice” and “righteousness” are two ways of saying the same thing.
Justice and righteousness can be weighty and significant things or they can seem to be as insignificant as a single dime. But doing what is right and treating others fairly is always a major thing. It can create memories and bonds that will last a life time. Perhaps even into eternity.
Let’s treat others with justice and righteousness, in significant things as well as insignificant things.
We will be much happier for it, and so will they.