INTRODUCTION TO OUR NEIGHBORS

You might want to sit down and get really comfortable when reading this short story… and before you ask, “Yes, this is a true story.”  My husband might not be keen on me admitting that, but I must.

My husband and I were only married a little over three years.  We were still getting to know each other’s habits, likes and dislikes.  My husband’s job took us to sunny Florida for a time. 

We made this move in the wrong month.  I say that because August is the HOTTEST month of the year in that area of the United States.

Humidity levels ranged from 100 down to 95%.  Everything done outside at that time of year was accomplished at a pace called slow.  Even if you just stood still, your body continued to perspire.  It’s been said that men perspire, and women glow.

Well, in Florida, if that phrase were true, women would be glowing into a puddle!

We had survived the adjustment to the summer heat.  We waited until late October since it was cooler to reappear on our neighborhood streets for evening walks, and one could wear slacks in the evenings.  While I was thinking of ways we could meet our neighbors, the following is a vivid recollection of a series of events. 

While strolling in evening coolness near our home, my husband realized he had picked up a passenger.  He immediately began leaping and yelling and shaking in his pants.  A small lizard had climbed inside his pants leg for a ride around the block, and since it was likely too confining, this little fellow wanted “out.”

My husband wasted no time in removing his belt and began lowering his slacks to provide a quick “evacuation route” for his new little friend.  Though supportive of his dilemma, all I could do was laugh … but did so with great sympathy, I might add (or at least I tried).

It was getting dark outside so the neighbors never observed the unfolding drama.

Well, this was certainly one way to be remembered by our neighbors.  I wondered if there might be another?

Though we don’t celebrate Halloween, I wondered how we might introduce ourselves to the neighborhood.  It dawned on me that Halloween presented us a “unique opportunity” for us to dress up and meet them that way.  

Here is where you’re not going to believe what happened next.

Since we were not flush with funds, I gathered a few articles of

our clothing, and began being creative.  On the night in question, I

asked my husband to join me at our bathroom sink. He took a seat and I, shall I say, “re-constructed his appearance.” 

I did the same for myself.

Yes, we went to visit all the neighbors as Raggedy Ann and Andy! The neighbors laughed at (and with) us.  We had a hilarious time that evening going from door to door.   So, if you are struggling to get to know your neighbors, might I suggest that you dress up a little and make an appearance?  Believe me, they’ll remember you forever!

MAY I WASH YOUR FEET?

This story has been germinating for many years, and it always brings tears to my eyes because of its special nature.

No one is the perfect parent, except God, the Father.  His first two children, Adam and Eve – who lived in a perfect environment, had a perfect parent: God Himself.  They, however, blew it big time.  So parents reading this, be encouraged.

My dad wasn’t well versed on “affirmation.”  Since he was orphaned at eight when his mother died, he didn’t have any mentors in his family. Most parents, regardless of what they have experienced, usually try to bring up their children the best they know how.  My story begins with this preface, and will, in the end, honor my dad.

My father had an outgoing personality and was a very friendly.  He could parade through a grocery store (which he did about four times a week) entertaining and befriending every clerk. 

One time, as we were approaching the check out, I heard him refer to the cashier as Priscilla.  Then as I approached, he would introduce me as his daughter, his first Priscilla.  I had no idea I had so many namesakes.

Thanks to my husband’s accrued air miles, I was able to visit my parents about four times a year.  In addition to enjoying my time with them, it was an opportunity to tackle small and large cleanup projects around the home which allowed them to remain in their home.

After breakfast one morning, I took a cup of tea to my former bedroom (when I lived at home) and read my Bible.  May I insert that I had been praying for my parents to receive Jesus Christ as their personal Savior for about 15 years at the time.

My dad had absolutely no interest in God!  That included any radio or television programs that brought God into focus.  It took a number of years for God’s wisdom to sink into my head and behavior to realize that my walk needed to match my talk! 

In fact, there was little or no “talk” about Jesus as dad would either leave the conversation, or walk out of the room.

My father was diabetic and required insulin each day.  By now my mother expertly handled this function twice every day for him.  She was a very steady, strong-willed woman, and good at meeting my dad’s needs.

I had no more than closed my Bible this particular morning when my mother gave a little knock on my door and gently peeked in with a statement I shall never forget.  I won’t sermonize this but there is one verse that will begin to come alive in the following paragraphs.

If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; you also ought to wash one another’s feet. John 13:14

My mom’s words were: “There is something your dad would like you to do for him, and I can’t do it.”  What????  My Mom seemed to handle anything.  Her morning injections were as smooth as ice.  What was it that she couldn’t do, that dad require

I say that gingerly, because I was raised with many doubts that I could never do anything right.  Even if I mowed the lawn, he would be quick to point out a blade I missed.  My goodness, this had to be a BIG request.

 “What is it,” I inquired?  “He wants you to do his feet?”  What that translates to is to clean and file down the almost 1/4 inch of fungus on his toenails.  He was unable to do it himself. 

He had seen a podiatrist (whom I love to refer to as a toenail doctor), and this procedure was very painful for my dad and he wasn’t about to make a return appointment.

With the background I described earlier, can you sense the stress I was beginning to feel?  Shortly thereafter I approached my dad and asked him what he wanted in more detail. 

I hadn’t seen my dad’s feet in years.  You might think that odd, but if you think about it, we usually see people fully dressed; complete with shoes and socks.

He invited me to the living room and pulled off his socks to show me his feet, specifically, his toenails.  I tried my best not to look shocked.  The nails were at different heights and all filled with fungus that needed to be shaved down so they were smooth.

You might wonder how much experience I’d had in performing this podiatry skill.  NONE!  As I looked at his feet, my first thoughts were, I cannot do this.  I don’t know how; and more accurately, I was afraid of hurting him. 

Then it happened, God brought to my memory some of the verses I had just read in John 13.  Words we may read in our devotional time aren’t just words to “leave on the page,” they are to be “worked out in the sneakers of our living.” 

God was preparing me for this new assignment. 

All our God-assignments involve serving others – to bring honor and glory to God.  In other words, our actions are to “make God look good.”

The instant the reality of this verse hit home; I knew God was asking me to “attend to my dad’s feet.” This would involve not only cleaning his feet, but attending to and reducing the fungus under the nails.  

Thus, my first idea that I shared with dad was that he needed to soak his feet in nice warm sudsy water.  He was quite prepared as he had proper files, clippers and the works.  I had prayed for over ten years for God to open up an opportunity to share Christ with him. 

I had shared my story of becoming a Christian years prior, but with no positive response.

This evening was my “Divine Appointment and Divine Assignment.”  It was my time to “be the Gospel … be Jesus to him.”

My “Yes, I’ll try,” was my Dad’s good news for the day.  I suggested that after supper I would get a container of nice clean warm water in which to soak his feet, and then attend to his tootsies!  My father’s face lit up like a Christmas tree.  He was more than on board for all of this.

After this brief introduction to his “tootsies,” I went to my room to collect myself.  I thought to myself, “How in the world can I do this?  How can I get past the insecurity of the assignment?  I wondered if this included feet.

God’s Spirit instantly reminded me of two truths found in Philippians 2:13 and Philippians 4:13:

Philippians 2:13 “For it is God who works in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.

Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Dinner was over and the “foot event” was about to commence.  But, how was I to do this?  To me, this was an impossible task?  The immediate answer was this:  Dianne, pretend that your dad’s feet were Jesus’ feet. That was a tall order, as well as it was my marching orders.

I’m glad mom shared his request in the afternoon, as it gave God and I time to interact about all of this and get the equipment ready.  You’d have thought we were having a party … as my father was “so enthusiastic.”

He was anxious to get started and had himself all propped up on the sofa in the living room.  Mom wanted to get in on all this too.  They both seemed so relieved and excited about the potential activity.  So with my personality, I thought we might as well turn this into a “foot party.”

Prepared with warm water, soap, wash cloth, nice towels, the soaking activity began.  I soaped up his feet and gently rubbed them.  That must have felt good as he was all smiles about this time.  Then I laid a towel on my lap and began patting dry his feet.

When I took the various files in my hand to begin, a wonderful thing happened in my heart that translated in my eyes.  I began to see my dad’s feet as though they were the feet of Jesus. 

With gentle, yet firm strokes, I began the procedure of filing down each toenail.  To my utter amazement they began to quickly reduce in size, and an hour later, all his toenails were smooth to the touch and normal in height.  Afterwards I massaged his feet with a nice cream and covered his feet with clean white socks. 

He was delighted!!!  I was “over the moon” with relief.  The best part of all this was that I never hurt him.  God is so good.

This was the first of four cleaning sessions a year lasting for a little over twenty-five years.  This was the first time in my life that my dad seemed appreciative of my efforts.  Every time I came for a visit, we had a “foot party.” 

This foot party turned into a manicure of his hands.  The party escalated so that even my mom wanted her feet and hands done too.  Each party lasted about two hours.  An hour for each of my “parent customers.”

This isn’t the end of the story.  After praying thirty-nine years for my dad and through twenty-five of those years, attending to his feet, he finally came to give his life to Christ just eleven days before the Lord took him home to heaven to be with his new-found Savior.

God touches others through our lives.  He does use our lips, but often God works through loving others by “serving them” in whatever opportunity God opens up.  

Many times we’re given the privilege of telling another about Jesus, and that’s a wonderful joy.  However, we also need to “show them Jesus” through loving service to them in whatever arena God brings to us.   To demonstrate God’s love requires our willingness to be changed … and that is where the first miracle is initiated. 

I think people would rather experience the love of God firsthand … so that their hearts become most open to hearing it!!

CHOSEN

Perhaps you have a special personal story of delight and surprise.  Like any woman, my age is neither posted at the local post office nor on Facebook.  In case you are curious, I am older than some and younger than others, and a physician would likely be informing me that I needn’t worry about birth control at this point.  So … that’s the extent of my conversation in this delicate area.

My husband and I have been married for a good number of years.  Most people, when you are first introduced, either ask “what do you do for a living,” or “do you have any children?”

With my personality, I’m tempted to respond to the first inquiry by responding, “I do lots of things while I’m living, and most of them don’t bring in an income.”  And in response to the second question, I sometimes feel an emotional tear that’s anxious to express itself.

Though we don’t have any children of our own, we do have lots of other peoples’ children.  People often break into a laugh, and are stuck for further conversation.  I suppose most people assume that everyone has children … but that is not always true.

Every life is different and holds a different plan. Some have the “gift of singleness.”  Some have the “gift of marriage and children.”  Some have the “gift of loving other peoples’ children.”  Whatever the plan, it’s orchestrated for God’s purposes and building His family here on earth.

One day I was prompted to attend a Bible Study.  I had never been to this group before, so everyone was new to me.  Upon entering the room, I noticed a woman in a wheelchair sitting alone, though there were women gathering around and sitting at various tables. That’s the table I chose, and ever-so-slowly a few women began to move to our table.   

Soon all the chairs were taken, and I observed that, except for this woman in the wheelchair and me, all the other women were Asian.  I love Asian women!

There was one particular young Chinese gal to whom I was inescapably drawn.  She seemed quiet and gentle.  After our study time together, we all left and went to our individual homes.  The following week she again sat at my table.  There was a spark in my heart for her.  I smiled at her whenever possible.  She shared that she felt her attempts at English were insufficient and she often felt awkward. 

In my eyes, she was delightful and I had no problem at all understanding her pronunciations. 

I continued to observe this sweet gal, and about the third week, I took the plunge and asked her if she would enjoy coming to my home for a latte one morning.  To my delight, she accepted.  We chose a date later that week.

I was a little nervous in having her over as I can sometimes struggle for conversation.  My desire to get to know this sweetheart of a gal was greater than my apprehension.

She had short hair, tastefully designed around her face; and she had the most beautiful dark brown eyes that just seemed to sparkle when she spoke.

The morning arrived!  The espresso machine all warmed up and ready for its next latte brew for my new Chinese friend-to-be.  I greeted her with open arms at the front door, and it seemed that we both relaxed immediately while greeting each other.   

Using the espresso machine was my first attempt at “entertaining” my guest.  Soon we both ventured to our little living room, a cozy setting with the lights on and ready to host this new relationship.

I can’t remember what all we talked about, but somewhere in the conversation that morning, I asked if she was nervous at being invited to my home.  She answered immediately, “Yes!”  You see, she had never been invited to a Westerner’s home.

I shared my thoughts about meeting her for the first time at this Bible study and how drawn I was to her.  I also encouraged her for her exceptional grasp of English.  We talked non-stop for about two hours.  It was time for her to return to her routine at home, but it wouldn’t be the last time in my home … or in my heart.

Before long, my new friend invited me to her place.  It seemed our friendship just took off … to wonderful places.

She and her daughter had moved to Canada from China.  Her husband’s employment in China prevented him from joining his family permanently for a few years.  As you can only imagine, the impact of being in a new country and strange and foreign culture was huge.  She had been encouraged to learn English while growing up in China, but the greater adjustment was depending on and adjusting to a new language and culture with no real support. 

She and I chatted about all these changes and adjustments on a regular basis.  I too had moved a few times to a different country and culture.  I could understand, in many personal ways, the pain of homesickness, insecurity, and a sense of not belonging.  Having to find new doctors, dentist, shopping and the process of making friendships all presented a tremendous emotions burden on her.  I wanted to relate to both relate to, and encourage her in journey.

Months after our friendship was established, she and her daughter flew back to China to visit her husband and parents.  It was then that she realized God had provided her friends – my husband and me – in Canada who missed her and longed for her return.

Here’s where the “delightful surprise” began to emerge.  Soon after her return, and to my delight and surprise, she opened up to me about what she was feeling in her heart toward my husband and me.   She shared with me that for the first time she felt as though she had family that missed her presence when she left for her trip overseas.

She then asked if I would become her Canadian Mom!  Usually in adoption settings, it’s the parents who choose a child, but she wanted to “adopt” us.  This “creative adoption” was in reverse, she chose us, and you cannot imagine how thrilled and honored we were.  

From that day forward, she never called me by my first name, but called me “Mom.” 

I melt inside each time she uses the term Mom when talking with me.  Never in my wildest imagination could I have foreseen this God-directed, unique type of adoption for me; and I couldn’t be more pleased.

For those of you that are a mom or a dad to someone, never forget the tenderness in the heart of someone who addresses you with that beautiful reference of love and relationship.

Oh, and just a reminder that God is equally thrilled for you to call Him, “Father.”

OUTSIDE HOSPITALITY

“Meals on Wheels“

Do you often think that if you are going to have coffee or dine with a friend that it must be at Starbucks, or a fancy restaurant?  Let me introduce you to a new location.

It won’t necessarily be fancy and the atmosphere may even leave a few things to be desired.   You probably wouldn’t leave a tip:  coin or folded. 

The dining area is “open seating,” and the ambience is dependent upon your attitude.  The sky is the limit regarding the menu selection.   Can you guess where I might be describing?

First, let me introduce you to someone.  I was sitting in a church one Sunday, and as I glanced around and behind me, a delightful looking woman was sitting behind me.  

After my “Hello” in her direction, she smiled warmly.  Then, another sweet surprise, she was from South Africa.   Her accent was captivating.   Our friendship began right there. 

After the service we continued with our introductions, and I found her to be warm and loving.  Over the years, our families would get together for dinners – whether at our dining room table, or kitchen table.  Regardless of where we met, we just had fun. 

I remember sharing with her that I was the type of friend who could enjoy a plain cheese sandwich just sitting on the curb with a friend.    I hoped she would catch on that I didn’t feel I was a “high maintenance” type of friend.

This lady would cry with me, laugh at my jokes (and I can assure you I’m not good at jokes), but what an encourager she was to my heart and walk with the Lord. 

She was going through a rough patch in her life, and I so wanted to be an encourager to her.  

Our friendship was simple….it was just being together that mattered.   I’m convinced that’s the best type of friendships to have.  

Neither she nor I was “flushed in funds” for fine-dining at the time, so we’d often just share something at either of our kitchen tables.   It was all about just being together, never mind what was being deposited in our mouths. 

I recall that one day I could sense she was a bit discouraged.   My mind went into gear as to how to bring a genuine chuckle and encouragement to my friend.   Ah, Jesus gave me an idea. 

I remember putting some sandwiches together and cutting them into tiny pieces and placing them on a small plate.   I just kept grabbing things I had in the fridge…. from fruit to a piece of chocolate.  The last item I grabbed was a blanket. 

Knowing how we both enjoyed “tea,” I invited my tea pot and some nice china cups to come along with me.   We were taking “lunch & tea” to my friend’s place. 

Did you notice I didn’t say “her home?”    This little “meals on wheels” excursion never made it inside her home.   I knocked on her door and invited her “out to lunch.” 

I was quick to advise her that we wouldn’t be going far.   No, not far at all.   For I had laid out the blanket and items on the blanket just yards from her front door.

My friend’s eyebrows shot up and eyes grew when she saw the layout.   We must have sat there for almost two hours.   We never wondered what the neighbors thought because we were together just enjoying the presence of green grass, and the trees.  

Even the birds were on assignment to sing a chorus of song for our entertainment.

We both still look back at the time we just paused from our routine and simply, very simply, met together.   I wanted her to know she was special to me and worth making a lunch for, adorning it on a blanket and enjoying her company. 

Yes, our lives can get busy.  Sometimes too busy.    It’s so easy to be “activity addicted.”    The pause that day still lingers in both our hearts, and continues to bring a smile when we remember the simple delights of life.

And no, it wasn’t a cheese sandwich.   But it could have been, and we couldn’t have cared less.

If you share your home address with me, I might pop over with a few things from my refrigerator…just for “us” to enjoy.

“Remember to welcome strangers in your homes.  There were some who did that and welcomed angels without knowing it.”  Hebrews 13:2 (GNT)

A DIVINE BAKERY

1 cup uncooked oats

1 ¼ cup boiling water

 1 cup white sugar

1/2 cup butter

1 cup brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla

2 eggs

1 ½ cups sifted all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

¾ tsp cinnamon

Pour boiling water over oats and let set 20 minutes

Beat butter and sugar together in separate bowl. 

Blend in vanilla and eggs

Stir in the oats mixture

In another bowl, sift together flour, soda, salt and cinnamon.

Add this mixture to the creamed mixture.  Mix well.

Pour into a greased 8” square pan.  Bake for 25-30 minutes in a 350-degree oven.  Check after 25 minutes…as this may be sufficient baking time, depending on your oven.

Hello!  Just about now, you may be wondering why I’ve posted a recipe.  Am I right about that?  Actually, this is a favorite “oatmeal cake” my grandma shared with me many years ago.  When I feel a little nostalgic, I make this cake, and I make certain to invite others to join me, so I don’t consume it all in one setting.

 In a funny sort of way, this recipe is what I’d refer to as an “emotional cake” because eating it brings back a variety of happy memories.  Maybe you have recipes that hold emotional memories for you as well.

But this story isn’t about memories or deserts.  It’s about how God works His will and plans into our lives.  One theme of encouragement I often refer to is this: 

Our lives are designed by God to “live out His plans and purposes” in our lives.

It’s not until we acknowledge in our life that, from birth, we came into this world as a sinner.  Two-year-olds need never be taught to misbehave…it’s automatic.  It’s not a large word, but most everyone finds it difficult to let it exit their mouth.  

I know I did for years, until God worked in some very difficult circumstances in my early twenties which woke me up to my need of forgiveness, and the opportunity of becoming His child through His adoption by accepting what His Son, Jesus, did for me on the cross.   My decision to repent (change my mind of the direction I was going and yield my life to Him) and place me in a better direction for my life here; and to prepare me for spending eternity with Him.

It all began with the first human couple, Adam and Eve.  They walked with God in perfection and in a perfect garden atmosphere… that is until they disobeyed one directive given by a loving Creator.   They could eat and enjoy any food in the garden, but stay away from just “one tree,” (the Knowledge of Good and Evil).   Our Creator-God never wanted them to realize or be exposed to evil.  It was a test for this first couple, and both of them failed the test and disobeyed God’s instructions.   That was the beginning of sin and this couple passed this inborn nature down to all of us.  

My goodness, they had everything one could desire all around them, but they couldn’t resist Satan’s temptation to taste of the fruit of that tree.   God calls that disobedience sin.

Well, back to the title of this story…. A DIVINE BAKERY.  I’m imagining you on the other side of this computer screen as I share some of what’s been going on in the life of my husband and I.

A medical challenge took place that went on for about six weeks.  There’s no need for specifics, but it left me weak, frustrated, in pain, loss of sleep and fearful at times.  We’ve all experienced these kinds of days, or weeks or months, haven’t we!  Maybe you’re there right now.

But one particular night as I was reading a book by Dr. Tony Evans, “Pathways…From Providence to Purpose.”  It’s an excellent book on the Providence and Sovereignty of God.  I was only reading the book to take my mind off the inability to sleep.   It wasn’t long before I was gripped with the many truths from God’s Word on how God works in and through our lives. My yellow highlighter was on high alert to all the truths and applications saturated in this book.

If you’re a follower of Jesus Christ, no doubt you’ll be aware of the Scripture in Romans, chapter 8, verse 28 for followers of Jesus.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

I’m not the brightest button on the blouse, but through the last four months, Jesus has helped “piece several components” of the events of my journey together in an astounding manner.  Most all of the outcome has come as a “huge surprise.” 

God seemed to work “underground” for weeks, when nothing of my circumstances made any sense; and bakery-speaking, didn’t taste good either.  The Scriptures I found that kept me talking with Jesus and leaning into Him were:

Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not to your own understanding; but in all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path.”

Isaiah 64:4 declares that “God is uniquely faithful acting on behalf of those who trust in Him, in a way that is beyond human comprehension.

Isaiah 64:4 NIV “Since ancient times no one has   heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides You, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him.”

Let me park back on Romans 8, verse 28 for this “Divine Bakery” story.

There’s no need to list all the areas of His care, redirection, attentiveness, but when I came to the section in Tony Evans’ book on how God weaves all our circumstances for our good, (and His purposes for our life), God began this journey to a surprising end.  And yes, He even uses our “mistakes” and weaves them together.

Here’s the focus of what I wanted to share about the cake recipe at the beginning of this story.   As I stated earlier, oatmeal cake is just about my favorite cake, but when you think about consuming each of the ingredients “individually,” they have absolutely no appeal on their own.  In fact, each ingredient tastes AWFUL (in my cake-opinion).  I’d never wish to consume any of them on their own.  But when put TOGETHER and placed in a heated oven………………AMAZINGLY, they are delicious and delightful.

Are you coming along with me on this, seeing what I began to see as the unpleasant, painful, discouraging, confusing and tiring events began to paint a picture……involving a “transition of surprise” that both myself and my husband never imagined or planned for.

This transition is beginning to unfold and we’re walking with the Lord Jesus, trusting Him to make a way that we cannot yet see.  But where He guides, He also provides. 

This journey brought to mind the illustration that we are in God’s Divine Bakery…. where He is using all the events He knew were coming our way (His Sovereignty and knowledge and control of all things), and using each of them (His Providence – carrying out His plan for our lives) in ways we would have never imagined. 

And like the cake recipe, each event/ingredient was and is working together for our good and His glory.   We’re not at the end of the story, but it’s in His “oven of care and direction” to show us the next step.

By the way, if you make that cake, let me know so I can “ooh and aah” with my taste buds.                         

OUTSIDE HOSPITALITY

“Meals on Wheels”

Do you often think that if you are going to have coffee or dine with a friend that it must be at Starbucks, or a fancy restaurant?  Let me introduce you to a new location.

It won’t necessarily be fancy and the atmosphere may even leave a few things to be desired.   You probably wouldn’t leave a tip:  coin or folded. 

The dining area is “open seating,” and the ambience is dependent upon your attitude.  The sky is the limit regarding the menu selection.   Can you guess where I might be describing?

First, let me introduce you to someone.  I was sitting in a church one Sunday, and as I glanced around and behind me, a delightful looking woman was sitting behind me.  

After my “Hello” in her direction, she smiled warmly.  Then, another sweet surprise, she was from South Africa.   Her accent was captivating.   Our friendship began right there. 

After the service we continued with our introductions, and I found her to be warm and loving.  Over the years, our families would get together for dinners – whether at our dining room table, or kitchen table.  Regardless of where we met, we just had fun. 

I remember sharing with her that I was the type of friend who could enjoy a plain cheese sandwich just sitting on the curb with a friend.    I hoped she would catch on that I didn’t feel I was a “high maintenance” type of friend.

This lady would cry with me, laugh at my jokes (and I can assure you I’m not good at jokes), but what an encourager she was to my heart and walk with the Lord. 

She was going through a rough patch in her life, and I so wanted to be an encourager to her.  

Our friendship was simple….it was just being together that mattered.   I’m convinced that’s the best type of friendships to have.  

Neither she nor I was “flushed in funds” for fine-dining at the time, so we’d often just share something at either of our kitchen tables.   It was all about just being together, never mind what was being deposited in our mouths. 

I recall that one day I could sense she was a bit discouraged.   My mind went into gear as to how to bring a genuine chuckle and encouragement to my friend.   Ah, Jesus gave me an idea. 

I remember putting some sandwiches together and cutting them into tiny pieces and placing them on a small plate.   I just kept grabbing things I had in the fridge….from fruit to a piece of chocolate.  The last item I grabbed was a blanket. 

Knowing how we both enjoyed “tea,” I invited my tea pot and some nice china cups to come along with me.   We were taking “lunch & tea” to my friend’s place. 

Did you notice I didn’t say “her home?”    This little “meals on wheels” excursion never made it inside her home.   I knocked on her door and invited her “out to lunch.” 

I was quick to advise her that we wouldn’t be going far.   No, not far at all.   For I had laid out the blanket and items on the blanket just yards from her front door.

My friend’s eyebrows shot up and eyes grew when she saw the layout.   We must have sat there for almost two hours.   We never wondered what the neighbors thought because we were together just enjoying the presence of green grass, and the trees.  

Even the birds were on assignment to sing a chorus of song for our entertainment.

We both still look back at the time we just paused from our routine and simply, very simply, met together.   I wanted her to know she was special to me and worth making a lunch for, adorning it on a blanket and enjoying her company. 

Yes, our lives can get busy.  Sometimes too busy.    It’s so easy to be “activity addicted.”    The pause that day still lingers in both our hearts, and continues to bring a smile when we remember the simple delights of life.

And no, it wasn’t a cheese sandwich.   But it could have been, and we couldn’t have cared less.

If you share your home address with me, I might pop over with a few things from my refrigerator…just for “us” to enjoy.

“Remember to welcome strangers in your homes.  There were some who did that and welcomed angels without knowing it.”  Hebrews 13:2  (GNT)

A GENTLE WHISPER

Psalm 77:14 “You are the God Who does wonders.”

Let’s never assume we have it in the bag thinking we know what a particular word means.  Whether a noun or a verb, it proves so often that our finite minds can’t absorb what a term of communication entails.  Are we alike in that when you look up a particular word in a dictionary or thesaurus, you find yourself with a host of other words.  And sometimes, in my admission, I forget the original word I was looking for.

This particular morning a week or so ago, I was reading in my Bible Psalm 77, verse 14.  In our activity-addicted, fast-paste life, we often skim over thoughts and expressions without pausing to park our minds on any particular phrase.  This verse, especially the last few words (God Who does wonders) wouldn’t allow me to move on in my reading.

It didn’t take me long to look up the word WONDERS.  Here’s what I found in my

Websters dictionary: 

Wonders:  a cause of astonishment or admiration, a feeling of awe a sense of surprise, amazement caused by something beautiful, unexpected or inexplicable. 

Biblical perspective:  supernatural event, a divine sign or the emotional state of awe and astonishment in response to God’s power.  It describes both the awe-inspiring works of God and the human reaction of being amazed by His presence.

Here’s an opening question for those who have committed their lives to Jesus Christ and read His Word, the Bible, regularly.  When was the last time you were “in awe” of what you just read?  Don’t we often think to ourselves, “I’ve read this many times before,” and continue in break-neck speed finishing the paragraph or chapter at hand.

“YOU ARE THE GOD WHO DOES WONDERS.”  There were stop signs all over this sentence.  And, proclaiming my ignorance, I wanted to see what “wonders” meant.  I was in the pause of my life at this early hour of the morning.  I had a number of errands to run that day…. but all would have to “wait” in line, after listening to God through His Word.

This very personal God desires to make His ways and presence known to each of us if we “seek Him” with all our heart. 

Jeremiah 29:13 “If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.”

Psalm 119:2 “Joyful are those who obey His laws and search for Him with all their hearts.”

There are many verses about “seeking Him,” but this isn’t just having a quick read, close the book and then on with our day.  I’m getting to love the phrase PAUSE….

After reading and thinking about what it means to “wonder,” it was as though that word wouldn’t exit my thoughts.

I began running a few errands and my last stop of the day was at our local Costco store.  For those of you reading this story and are not familiar with that store; it’s a huge warehouse of food items, pharmacy and untold miscellaneous items for homes, gardens and the like.

One of my favorite places to pause in life is the ladies’ restroom.  You men may not comprehend this, I realize.  It’s not just a place for needful pausing, freshening up makeup, powdering our noses and chatting with friends.  It’s a “room to rest for ladies who wish to be engaged in a variety of activities.”  That may contribute to the well-used phrase when women are together, they may ask another gal to join them in their journey to the nearest ladies’ room.  Men, I realize this will not make sense to you…it’s a “lady’s thing.

Exiting one of the five feet by three feet stalls, I went over to what looked like a cattle stall with fixtures for soap and water and a large mirror above.  Again, to show my ignorance, about a year prior, Costco had just installed this new “trough” for washing your hands.  It was then that I learned the techniques for washing up.

The soap container was obvious.  I lathered up really well and then attempted “just the right spot” to ignite the stream of water.   Alas, nothing was working.  My hand was full of suds, but no water.  I thought to myself, “how difficult can this be?”  A fellow female traveller gently shared some critical information.   My hands were not in “just the right spot or angle” for the water to come forth.

I thought to myself, I hope “Candid Camera” isn’t on the scene to see how many minutes it takes for a woman to locate just the right area for water.   I thanked this woman profusely.  We both had a chuckle from it….at my expense.  But I was grateful.

My experience some time ago came in handy this particular day.  I washed my hands and now was on the “rinse-cycle” of my hand-washing career.  It was AT THIS MOMENT, a woman appeared next to me.  She looked at the gadgets before her and seemed to have no awareness of what to do next.

That’s when it happened!  It was as though God came near and softly and said to me, “Help her find the soap and show her what to do.”  For just a few seconds, it felt like “time stood still” and I was prompted to help this woman.

Right now, you may be thinking, that’s odd, and “why would you be attributing all this to God speaking to you?”  He’s a personal God and interested in EVERY DETAIL OF OUR LIVES.

Psalm 37:23 “The Lord directs the steps of the godly (those who belong to Him).  He DELIGHTS in EVERY DETAIL OF THEIR LIVES.”

For some reason, this lady next to me found it a difficult adventure in utilizing the facilities.  I softly pointed out where to place her hands.  She lit up like a lantern, and by the time she discovered the specific spot for the water faucet, she broke out in smiles.

As I was drying my hands, I shared that I understood her plight because a year ago, I was in the same quandary.

God has His kids everywhere to notice and

assist others in the challenges of life, doesn’t He!

But this isn’t the end of the story.  For you see, God made me “quietly aware of her need.”  God doesn’t need to shout to get our attention.  Right after I left the room, the impact of what just took place made a lasting impression on me.  I couldn’t get the tiny details out of my mind.  It was such a quiet, gentle nudging….as though everything was in s l o w –  m o t i o n.

When I got home, I was reminded of a verse in 1 Kings 19:11,12:

“Go out and stand before Me on the mountain,” the Lord told him.  And as Elijah stood there, the Lord passed by, and a mighty windstorm hit the mountain.  It was such a terrible blast that the rocks were torn loose, but the Lord was not in the wind.  After the wind there was an earthquake.  And after the earthquake there was a fire.  And after the fire there was the sound of a “gentle whisper.”  When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave.”     (Then the Lord continued His conversation with Elijah). 

What struck me here was what had taken place in the ladies’ restroom at Costco.  God was making Himself known to my heart at that moment and inviting me to join Him in helping the woman next to me.

It wasn’t “earth-shattering,” but ever-so-gently and personally.

“Whoever is faithful with very little

will also be faithful with much.”

Luke 16:10 Let’s be available and alert for the LITTLE THINGS, the LITTLE WAYS we can be Jesus, with skin on, helping others.

BUS DELIVERY OF A NEW FRIEND

When you frequent a place, don’t you find that you gravitate to the same area sometimes, perhaps even the same row of seats?  And perish the thought if someone else should occupy “your seat” before your arrival. 

Though cool, it was a delightful Sunday morning in October.   One of my favorite joys is greeting people at the church.  On this day, I placed myself between the door and the brisk outside air – not wanting to lower my body temperature so early in the morning.

Of course, you can stand inside and wait until people enter the building; but I feel it’s important that people see someone genuinely greeting and welcoming them.  

We had been at this church for a few months, and I was trying to learn names and recognize faces each week.   But I found that even if I couldn’t remember a name, I was becoming familiar with the faces.   In our busy world being remembered can make others feel important and welcome.

The parking lot was buzzing with people arriving for the morning service.   Hugs and conversations were in full swing, but out of the corner of my eye I saw a small yellow and white bus pull up to the curb and park.  In a few moments the driver came around to the exit door.  Even from a distance, I could see that a woman inside was moving slowly toward the bus steps

A small-statured lady with lovely white hair appeared at the top step.  She was dressed so neatly and waited for instructions and a caring hand to help her down the steps.  I heard the faint verbal count of each step as the driver audibly counted down her descent.  The young driver then accompanied this lovely woman arm-in-arm toward the door of our church.  I’m reminded often that the Lord directs our steps, and the steps of others that come across our path.

I did not hesitate to ask if I could help.  Somewhere in the brief conversation, I was informed that she was partially blind and needed help to be guided and seated in the sanctuary.  She was such a pleasant lady and I was only too happy to escort her.

As we approached the auditorium, we exchanged pleasantries and I found her simply delightful as I guided her to an appropriate row toward the back.   An usher noticed our entry, and I asked him to watch carefully when the service was over, and to be sure and help this fine lady to the exit door to wait for the bus to pick her up.

He was most agreeable.  After introducing them, I assured her that he would take care of escorting her out of the seat and back to the entrance to the church.

Sometime after the service as I was leaving, I noticed her again by the exit door.  She was sitting on a ledge by the window peering out the window and watching for that nice yellow and white bus.

It was a pleasure to see her again: and oddly enough I felt strangely drawn to her.  Many people were passing by her as they were leaving, but she seemed all alone.

Just before leaving the building I asked how she was as I wanted to make sure that she was being picked up soon.  With a warm smile, she assured me the bus driver would be there soon and take her back to her place of residence.   

I introduced myself as the woman she met when she first arrived.  “What is your name?” I asked.  I could tell that she was happy to have been asked.  Her name is Caroline and this was her first Sunday visiting our church.  

It was my pleasure to assure her that I would be looking for her next week and I would be delighted to see to it that I would help her find a seat and have her cared for each Sunday.   She seemed very happy about that.

Now think about this for a moment.  “If you were partially blind and you visited a church and no one greeted you or cared for your seating needs, would you return?”   How would you and I feel in a foreign setting with hundreds of others passing by without a word being said to you?  

How would you find your way out?  How awkward and frightening that would be.    I sometimes get nervous visiting places I’ve never been, and I can see why.   But what if I were blind?   Frightened wouldn’t come close to describe my inner fears. 

I find it incredible how God places people and situations right in front of us, trusting us, if I can use that word, to care for and look after them.   This first encounter was meant to be.

The following Sunday, about twenty minutes before the service, the yellow and white bus pulled up to the curb, and the driver circled around to help this sweet lady off the bus.   This Sunday was different however.   My feet couldn’t mobilize fast enough to arrive at the bus steps.   I called out her name to welcome her back to church. 

My plans were to walk arm-in-arm with her right to the area where she sat “last week.” However, God had “other plans.”   God’s ways are amazing, and can be contrary to our plans

Arm-in-arm we began our approach to where she sat last week; yet something within me would not allow that to happen.   I asked if she would like to sit with my husband and me in another location instead, and she seemed only too pleased and somewhat relieved with that offer.

So we walked a little further than the previous week to the area where my husband and I normally sat.   The rest is history!   Every Sunday morning it is as if she prances off that bus like a queen.   She started bringing her walker, which increased her speed limit and freedom.   

At 93 years of age she’s so good at maneuvering her walker, I wonder if she was into race-car driving in her earlier years. 

I parked her walker at the back of the sanctuary wall, and we then proceeded – arms clutched together a few more row aisles to where we would sit together. 

At the end of the service, I moved her walker close by and we leave  a few moments before the rest of the congregation exits.

We’ve added a “refreshing stop” after exiting the auditorium doors.    Caroline and her mobile-wheeled helper move with me in the direction of the donuts and coffee urns.   I would make a bee line for the cups and get pouring as Caroline, gleefully munched on a donut.    

The next item on the agenda was to return to the entry door waiting for the little yellow and white bus.   Her walker has a fold out seat which provides her a comfortable way to sit and enjoy her liquid refreshment before boarding the bus.    

People began noticing her arrival and departures each Sunday; but it isn’t her walker and fragile frame they’re drawn to.   It’s her smile and laughter and singing all the way to the front door.   Whatever the last hymn or praise chorus we’ve sung that morning, that’s our theme to coffee and out the front door.

I love it when others stop and introduce themselves to her.  Slowly she’s getting acquainted with others and beginning to feel at home.What encouragement this woman is to me and I couldn’t be more privileged to be “Jesus…with skin on” to one of His delightful children.                                       

My prayer is that my eyes will see like He sees, and that I would take advantage of every practical opportunity He places in front of me, to love and show kindness.

KINDNESS IS A LANGUAGE THAT THE DEAF CAN HEAR

AND THE BLIND CAN SEE.

A PICKUP THAT DIDN’T GO WELL

“NOT AT FIRST”

Do you ever have days when everything just seems Blah?  Your inner voice and motivation are essentially “Zero. Zip. Nada.” You try to talk to yourself to, “Get your act together!”  

I saw a cute cartoon which describes this day.  It read: 

“If you see me talking to myself, not to worry. 

I’m self-employed and we’re having a staff meeting.”

My husband and I had moved into a home that was, shall we say, neglected beyond belief, both inside and out.  In Real Estate parlance, such a home is often referred to as a “Real Fixer-Upper.”  My attempts at clearing the outside extended well beyond what I anticipated.  After one particularly trying day, after I had just finished bagging 48 large disposable waste bags of leaves, yard clippings, and tree trimmings, my patience was at an extremely low point, and when converted to temperature, it was likely about minus 10 degrees.  I had completed the yard clearing and piled everything neatly – ready for pick up for the garbage collector.  Exhaustion oozed from my body.

Being new to this neighborhood, I had inquired from a neighbor about how these bags and contents of the waste bin would be picked up by the city.  The neighbor told me that the city would pick up three or four of these yard waste bags each week if they were placed next to the large waste bin provided.  

Monday morning found four of these bags hugging the large waste container.  Our little dog began to bark consistently in anticipation of the arrival of the city’s Sanitation Engineer assigned to our area.

Yep, there he was, complete with a truck making loud mechanical noises while lifting the bins and moving forward from house to house.  Since I’ve always shared goodies with our “garbage guys” to show appreciation for their efforts and efficiency in trash removal, I thought I should do so with this fellow.  This would be our first meeting “at the can location,” and I was so pleased with myself at my orderly arrangement of all the bags, sure that the young man would also be duly impressed with heap of trash – ready for pick up.

I was armed with a big smile, anticipating a congenial introduction, but things did not go exactly as planned.  The young man’s face did not exude joy.  In fact, he was perturbed, and immediately invoked a corrective action to me on his route.

My placement of the rubbish bags was too close to the large bin; and because of COVID, I was informed that the city was not picking up the paper garbage bags.  My anticipated friendly relationship with My Garbage Guy began to disappear like a mist while I received a curt discourse on “trash rules and regulations” from a generally unhappy city employee.

To add insult to injury, as he was picking up the waste bin with the arms of his truck and in so doing, ripped a gash in a bag of tree limbs and leaves.  You can picture that all of this was spewing out of the bag.  He released the bin and pulled away, all the while giving me a rather smug look.  I found his attitude and actions very hurtful.

My neighbor saw what occurred and came over to encourage me.  Once I related my details of the event, she returned home.  About an hour later this same truck appeared again to remove the rubbish from the other side of the street.  

My “defense-lawyer” (my neighbor) was waiting for the driver.  She spent about ten minutes in “trash conversation” with this garbage collector, the content of which she shared with me later.  I would have avoided her “chosen wordage,” but I wasn’t in charge of her sermonete.  She said that she told the driver how inconsiderate he was to me, especially since I was new to the area and was only trying to follow the rules.

Needless-to-say, this wasn’t a good morning for me.  My feelings were hurt, and my “pleasant introduction” turned into a fiasco.  Humanly speaking, he was about to be crossed off my “treats for the garbage guy list.”  Now it was time to have a chat with the Lord about the verbal confrontation.

Yes, I received my “Divine instructions” and the pathway to mending was plain and simple.  Only put out the appropriate bin and hold off on those 48 bags of yard waste for a few months.

A week had passed and I was “ready and waiting” for the sound of his approach.  To be honest here, my tummy was churning, but I was going to pour out the “kindness barrel” as best I could.  I hadn’t premeditated what I was going to say, but just trusted that if my heart was in the right place, God would fill my mouth with the right words that needed to be delivered. 

The noise from the truck announced his arrival!  I approached the driveway, where the bin was placed, and as he pulled up, I said, “Did I put everything out okay this time?”  My jaw dropped as I viewed a smile that appeared on his face.  “Yep, you did it right.”  Then he proceeded to tell me why he couldn’t pick up the yard waste in the thick paper bags for a few months.

I thanked him and I thought that would be the wrap up of our conversation.  He paused and said, that he would soon return to empty the garbage on the opposite side of the street.  If I could handle it, he told me to empty one of those paper bags into my bin and roll it across the street and he would empty it for me. 

Those bags can be very heavy.  I was informed that I needed to load the yard waste into the bin myself since he was never allowed to touch a bag, but only use the truck’s pick-up mechanism to collect any trash.

What???  I couldn’t believe what came out of his mouth.  About an hour had passed and I perched myself outside in anticipation of his arrival in the big blue truck.  Sure enough, an hour later, he appeared.  This time I was ready with a can of Pepsi in my hand.  His arrival was more pleasant this time.  Perhaps he saw the Pepsi can in my hand as he made his way around the corner of the street.  As he pulled into position, I handed him the can of refreshment as his eyes sparkled and a great big grin appeared on his face.

As he took hold of the Pepsi can as I was attempting to place the second bag of yard waste into the bin when the bin tipped over and all the yard waste went all over the street.  It was just too heavy to get a firm grip on it.

So, what would any woman do at this point?  I politely told him that he could just move on to the neighbor’s bin, and that I would spend the next few minutes “cleaning the street” from my yard waste.  I knew this would be my next assignment as he had to remain in his truck … per the City’s bylaws. 

At this point, I almost began to cry, but that wouldn’t solve anything.  So, I quickly began the clean-up operation.  To my shock and surprise, the door to his cab opened and out he popped.  He began helping me tidy up the street from all the tree clippings that had been stored in this supposedly heavy-duty bag.  

I offered many heartfelt “thank-yous.”  He just smiled and said, “Don’t tell anyone I’m doing this, as I’m not supposed to touch the trash.”

Within about two minutes, the street was cleared, and in the bin and up and over into his truck it went.  He knew I was grateful, and a huge smile from him appeared in the rear-view mirror as he drove off.

So, if you’re wondering if God is interested and desires to be involved in our “tiny trials.”  The answer is a resounding “Yes!” He longs that we see Him at work in our daily duties and regular routines.

I serve a BIG GOD … who cares to be involved in every aspect of my life and in yours.  However, we need to give Him the opportunity.

And yes, my Sanitation Engineer will become part of my “baking routine each week.”  I want to let him know that in our busy, often impersonal world, his occupation is important, and he is not just scenery on those days –and that his work makes a difference in the lives of many people.

Is your “garbage guy” or your personal “sanitation engineer” aware of your appreciation for his or her efforts?

EVENTS AT THE MEDICAL LAB

I gave more than blood!

It was an early morning that day, and even the sun hadn’t come up yet.  This day’s routine required leaving the house earlier than usual because I had an appointment with the people who draw blood at our local medical laboratory.

That ordinary procedure developed a life of its own that day.  Like me, I hope you often discover what we often refer to as “ordinary events” of life can sometimes spring into unexpected joys.  Our connection to God allows us to rest in the truth that:

“A person’s steps are directed by the Lord.  How then can we understand their own way?”  Proverbs 20:4

His ways lead to His purpose, and many times we will never understand the path before us.  

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the Lord.”  Isaiah 55:8

So, when you and I feel lost or can’t see a way forward, these verses can bring an unexplained deep peace which is not of this world, but directly from God.

At the time of this writing, we were still living with COVID restrictions, and in self-isolation mode.  So, when I venture out, I need to adorn my face with a blue mask.  Honestly, this morning that would be a marked improvement to my appearance. 

Sadly, the worst part of this “mask-wearing protocol,” is that you can’t tell if someone is frowning or smiling.   However, after looking into the mirror, I have discovered that if you put on a really enthusiastic smile, your eyes kind of enlarge and light up.  At least that’s my story and I’m sticking with it. 

Having a shower and dressing for this appointment was quite simple.  All I had to do was just show up and stand in line, of course six feet (2 meters) from the person in front of me.  I was there promptly at 8:00 am when the doors to the Lab opened for business.

A lab attendant hurried out the door with his clipboard and pen and proceeded to ask all the COVID questions necessary to allow anyone to enter the facility.

I was ready with my “all no’s” to their questions.  The lineup wasn’t a lengthy one, and so within 10 minutes I was hunkered down inside the facility waiting for my turn to be sequestered to a chair, ready for the “ready, aim and fire” by the gal with the needle.

Yes, the personnel are very clever in how they try to trick you and disguise what’s going to happen next.  To distract you, they begin to ask you questions, like:  what’s your name, date of birth, and then suddenly your arm is strapped with a tourniquet.

I really don’t mind needles, just so long as they’re going into someone else’s arm.  My needle-apprehension began to emerge, and I looked away while she did her little prick.  This gal’s “administration of the needle” wasn’t bad:  but I’ve had some in the past that when they inform you that you’re about to receive the prick, you never feel it.  Now that’s what I call a “good day” and an “excellent poke.”

All went well and I was glad that … it was over.  As I was about to leave, the people at the front desk told me that I could obtain the lab results by looking on line.  They gave me the website and the instructions (which seems a little blurry to me); but they were very pleasant, and being no need to hang around, off I went. 

We don’t live far from this lab, so I was home in ten minutes.  After being home for a while I began thinking about the lab staff’s kindness; and with the COVID protocol and restrictions they have to deal with together with the lack of patience and complaints of some people, the thought arose in my mind that a letter of thankfulness might be nice.

But I was home now and I wanted to relax. Well, you can imagine “Who” would not allow me to unwind just yet.  Before long I found myself drawn to my computer; and before I knew what hit me, I was writing a “letter of appreciation” to the Lab personnel.  It only took me a few minutes to strike the keys on the keyboard so that hopefully 15 or so people at the lab could have a better day at the office after receiving my note.

So, off I went to deliver my “expression of gratitude.”  I soon found myself about to stand in the lineup for a second time that morning, a line which had grown considerably since I was there earlier.  The man who was interviewing each patient saw me approach the line, and I felt I should let him know that I wasn’t in line again for questioning; but that I just wanted to give the lab staff this “letter” from me. 

I was startled when he asked me to “stay right where I was.”  I remained in position and he quickly left me and all the others as he rushed inside, my letter in hand.  He returned moments later with an unusual look on his face.  As he came close, as close as he could without violating the distancing rule, he said these words.

“We have never, ever received a letter like that.  I’ve just read it and it’s now being circulated around to all the staff.”

This man’s face looked as if he was about to break into tears.  I told him that in a season like this with all that we’re going through, I felt they all needed to know that what they were doing was really important, and I appreciated it very much.  It was a “well-deserved letter of gratitude.”

Off he went, reminiscent of a school boy with a new candy bar.  I can honestly say I felt the Lord’s pleasure in my own heart all the way home.

As I reflected about my “ordinary way” in my visit to the medical lab, thoughts came to me of the many ways God has provided for me, through others, and I never took advantage of the “practical way” I could express “thanks” to them.  Oh, how we need to have the lens of our eyes cleared so we can see others like God sees them.

Proverbs 11:25 “A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.”

I felt joy way down to my feet.  I’m learning to carry a few blank cards of stationery with me when having access to doctors, dentists, or the general public serving me.   They need to know that what they do and how they do it is “important.”

And best of all, you won’t even need a stamp if it’s your personal delivery.

WHO MIGHT YOU WANT TO ENCOURAGE on your next “ordinary outing?”  Go ahead, make someone’s day…. with your words of kindness and appreciation.  Be the love of Jesus, to them.  They might just find Him for themselves.