Grace in human agents is manifested in doing the good we are under no
just obligation to do:
The Plymouth Congregational Church, of Cleveland, Ohio, years
ago built themselves a beautiful church edifice. The contractor
drew the money due for work done, and instead of paying his
workmen, left for parts unknown, carrying the funds with him.
These workmen had not a shadow of a claim upon the trustees,
and expected nothing from them. But thirteen hundred dollars
were due them from the absconded contractor, and they needed the
money. The pastor, Rev. Mr. Collins, said to his people: “True,
we do not owe these men a farthing; still, let us make an effort
to give them what their dishonest employer owes them, and never
let it be said that unrequited toil went into the rearing of
this temple of the Most High.” And all the people said, Amen.
The laborers went that night to their homes rejoicing, carrying
their lost and found pieces of silver with them.
(1285)
See LAW AND GRACE.