The longer I live the more I embrace the idea that nothing about my life is random. Whether my encounters make sense or not , whether I understand them or not – I believe in a divine design. What I may call a random act may just be God giving me an opportunity to be His hands extended. I can choose to shut up my bowels of mercy or respond to the tugging in my spirit or that inexplicable desire in my heart. Today I just may be the answer to someone’s prayer if I am not too distracted to see the open door.
I may have responded to a similar prompt a while back. I shared a story about being at the right place at the right time to help a family who was stranded in a Walmart parking lot. In-the-parking-lot
Today I thank God that He has trusted me to yes to the moments He chose me to be His hands, feet, and voice. To help soothe a pain or heal a wound. Or just to sit there until the storm calms. To hold a hand until the fear subsides. To use words of life to resurrect a dream. To give hope when all seems lost. Simple acts that many of us can relate to:
You Had Me There
That young man in the supermarket lot who needed to be reminded that he was valued. You gave me Your words for him.
The mama caught in the thunderstorm with a baby in the stroller and groceries in one hand – You led me to stop and give a ride. I’ve have never seen them again. You cared. My classmates struggling because of their limited English skills. All it took was a little time to help.
The little girl on a long walk home soaked in the pouring rain. She probably shouldn’t have gotten in my car when I invited her to. I’d like to think she saw You in my eyes.
She struggled to swipe her card at the cash register probably well aware there was no money. You had me cover her shame. A few dollars, that’s all it was.
I saw him looking with wandering eyes. He could have been my son – hungry, with his own story. A few dollars and kind words, that’s all it took.
Some days all it took was a few minutes and a few steps to point a fellow traveler in the right direction, to the right aisle, or to the right street.
The shared meals, the prayers offered, the tuition, bills, or fees paid. The room or bed offered. The advice given that was so needed.
Maybe like me, you’ve discovered that the world is still filled with people who are willing to be part of God’s design. Thank you for being one – God’s love extended.
***Thanks for stopping by – And for showing up to life today.
Restored Hearts 