I’m going to post a really cool story-let soon on a time when this verse was real time for me: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven.” But first…
It is so annoying to me when I miss opportunities- either by not being aware of them until after or being too scared (of what?) to act.
For example, today I decided to eat a taste of America and have some fine dining at Mcdonald’s. When I picked up my tray from the counter there was a boy, probably 11-12 years old, who had a tin can and a pick (like the comb). This signifies he’s working on the buses today singing and asking for money. He hung out at the counter for a while and finally wandered out of the store. Our eyes met, and I felt like I should buy him lunch. He walked out the door but hung out on the corner for a second. I prayed, “Lord, have him turn around so I can invite him back in.” He did immediately. Our eyes met and I looked away.
I can’t express how frustrated I am at myself. He wanted lunch. I was more preoccupied with my chicken than an encounter for this kid with the love of God? I can’t explain why I didn’t move. I even pictured myself getting up and poking my head out the door to ask, “Quieres comer (Do you want to eat)?” I did not do it. Thinking it doesn’t help anyone. He’d be able to make plenty on the bus to buy some lunch today. That’s not the point. The point is it seems clear to me that God had set up a meeting so that this kid would know that he wasn’t alone or abandoned. I was the carrier that God chose to deliver His love. What an honor. I chose chicken instead– not even good chicken.
My heart breaks for these kids. I think about street children so often. Yet when I had an opportunity to bless one- more than that to share the love of God with one- I could not move. And I can’t explain why.
All I can do is pray someone else was obedient today. I also pray that our paths can cross again. Next time I won’t allow myself to be so dull.
Every moment is a mission. That’s not a statement of pressure. Simply move when you hear a voice saying, “Now’s the time.”
I sometimes talk with God and apologize that he has to work with/deal with someone so difficult haha. The thing is somehow He loves His job.
Look!
Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. Micah 7:18
But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. I Timothy 1:16
His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of the warrior, the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love. Psalm 147:10-11
It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.
The Lord is full of compassion and mercy. James 5:11
The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time. You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing. Psalm 145:15-16
P.S. I’d rather not post this. I’d rather post only when I do something really well haha. But hopefully, it will remind someone to keep their eyes open for a meeting with God’s love and mercy today.