The Borrowed Shoe

Chidi had one pair of shoe. Black, worn, but clean. It was his “interview shoe”, “church shoe”, and “wedding shoe” all in one.

His friend Obi called him: “Bro, my cousin’s wedding is Saturday. My shoe tore. Can I borrow yours?”

Chidi hesitated. If Obi borrowed it and it tore, Chidi would have nothing. But Obi begged, “I’ll return it Sunday morning. Promise.”

Chidi gave it. Saturday night, Obi didn’t come back. Sunday 8am, no shoe. Chidi had church service + ushering duty. He wore slippers to church. People whispered. “Usher in slippers?” He felt small.

After service, Obi ran in, sweating, holding the shoe. “Sorry bro! The wedding party lasted till 6am. I slept off. See, I even polished it for you.”

Chidi was angry at first. Then he saw the shoe. It was cleaner than he ever kept it. Obi added, “And take this.” He gave Chidi 5k. “For your transport and for making you feel small. I won’t forget.”

2 weeks later, Chidi’s shoe sole cut completely. He had no money for new one. He remembered Obi’s 5k. He added small money and bought a new pair.

Obi said, “See how God works? You borrowed me your shoe, I borrowed you grace. Now we both have.”

*Moral: Generosity looks risky, but what you give away in faith often comes back polished + with interest.* 👞