One morning, an old man went into the market. He was dressed plainly and on his arm he carried a small basket. “I wish to get a fowl for tomorrow's dinner,” he said.

The market man showed him a fat turkey, plump and white and ready for roasting.

“Ah! that's just what I want,” said the old man. “My wife will be delighted with it.”

He paid for it and the market man wrapped it and put it in the basket. Just then a young man stepped up. “I will take one of those turkeys,” he said. He was dressed in fine style.

“Here's your money,” said the young gentleman; “send it to my house at once.”

“I cannot do that,” said the market man. “My errand boy is sick today, and there's no one else to send.”

“Then how am I to get it home?” asked the young gentleman.

“I suppose you'll have to carry it yourself,” said the market man, “It is not heavy.”

“Carry it myself!” Who do you think I am? Fancy me carrying a turkey along the street!” said the young gentleman; and he began to grow very angry. The old man who had bought the first turkey was standing nearby and had heard all that was said.

“Excuse me, sir,” he said; “but may I ask where you live?”

“I live on Blank Street” answered the young gentleman; “and my name is Johnson.”

“Well, that is lucky,” said the old man, smiling. “I happen to be going that way and I will carry your turkey, if you will allow me.”

“Oh, certainly!” said Mr. Johnson. “You may follow me.”

When they reached Mr. Johnson's house, the old man politely handed him the turkey and turned to go.

“My friend, what shall I pay you?” said the young gentleman.

“Oh, nothing sir,” answered the old man. “It was no trouble to me, and you are welcome.”

He bowed and went on. Young Mr. Johnson looked after him and wondered. Then he turned and walked briskly back to the market.

“Who is that polite old gentleman who carried my turkey for me?” he asked the market man.

“That is John Marshall, Chief Justice of the United States. He is one of the greatest men in our country,” was the answer.

The young gentleman was surprised and ashamed. “Why did he offer to carry my turkey?” he asked.

“He wished to teach you a lesson,” answered the market man. “He wished to teach you that no man should feel himself too fine to carry his own packages.”

“Oh, no!” said another man who had seen and heard it all. “Judge Marshall carried the turkey simply because he wished to be kind and obliging. That is his way.²

2000 years ago, Jesus, the Son of God, looked at our pride and selfish ways and paid for our sin. The King of all kings carried our cross all the way to Calvary. His ultimate sacrifice showed His mercy and grace. He owed us nothing and yet suffered shame and humiliation because That is His Way! Thank you, Lord Jesus!

Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Lord of all lords, you humbled yourself for me because that is your way. You died on a cruel cross because you love me. My actions, words, or deeds can never repay your great sacrifice. But I offer you my heart, filled with gratitude, asking you to make me more like you. Thank you! In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1.    Isaiah 55:8-9 (NIV).

2.    “Why He Carried the Turkey”, by James Baldwin, 1912.

Today’s Encounter was written by: Veronica B.