During World War II, the French village of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon hid thousands of Jewish refugees from the Nazis. In 1943, 12-year-old Eric Schwam and his parents were among those taken in by the villagers. After the war, the Schwams returned to Austria, where Eric went on to study Pharmacy and marry. Eric never forgot what the community did for his family. So when Eric died earlier this year at the age of 90, he left his fortune of $2.4 million dollars to the village, directing that the money be used for scholarships and schools.

Illuminate our hearts with Your wisdom and grace, O God, so that we may realize the true treasures of our lives. Do not let us get so bogged down in the pursuit of things that will break, and status that will quickly fade. Focus our abilities and perspectives to seek the important and life-giving treasures of compassion, mercy, and justice.