A Truly Impressive Christian

I am not given to flights of praise, nor am I an overly emotional person, but I found the story below to be incredibly moving.  This particularly so, in that last night our Vestry approved the construction of a small addition containing an elevator and two special needs accessible restrooms.  It was a good, and no pun intended, constructive discussion, especially around money and stewardship.  To wake up and read about this man, this Holy Fool in the Eastern tradition, and his sacrificing for the Church is serving to convict me about my struggles in faithful stewardship.  As we discuss money, and what we will, or will not, give to the work of the Church, may Elder Dobry's witness guide and challenge us.  May his witness convict us in our discipleship.

May God bless the Holy Fools!

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98 year old dobri dobrev, a man who lost most of his hearing in the second world war, has traveled 25 kilometers every day for decades from his village in his homemade clothes and leather shoes to the city of sofia - a trip he made by foot until recently - where he spends the day begging for money.
though a well recognized fixture around several of the city’s chruches, known for his prostrations of thanks to all donors, it was only recently discovered that he has donated every penny he has collected — over 40,000 euros — towards the restoration of decaying bulgarian monasteries and churches and the utility bills of orphanages, living entirely off his monthly state pension of 80 euros and the kindness of others.  (From here).