I ran into Blockbuster today to return an online movie and redeem it for another one. Boo and I were the only customers in there and I knew exactly which movie I was going for so I grabbed it and walked up to the front, but there was no one at the register. I noticed someone was behind a shelf behind the register, so I went up and put my movies down and kind of shuffled Boo to my other hip, hoping I’d be noticed. I always feel a little uncomfortable in those situations, not knowing what to say to get her attention, but then I had to cough anyway, and she noticed me.
When she came up to the register and said, “Hi,” I noticed her eyes were red and I said, “How are you doing?” like I usually do.
She said, “Okay. I guess.” And then she gave a watery little smile and said, “It’s just one of those days when you just feel like crying all day, you know?”
I smiled sympathetically, thinking that I really wanted to say something comforting, but didn’t know what to say. Then she looked at me sheepishly while ringing up my movie and said, “I’m sorry.”
And I said, “It’s okay, we all have those kinds of days.”
“I just really didn’t want to have one here,” she explained, then handed me my movie and told me when it was due back.
I wanted so much to share Jesus with her. But all I managed to do was to stop as I picked up the movie and looking right at her I said, “I’ll pray for you today.”
She looked up and said softly, “Thank you.”
And I choked out a reply and left.
I wish I had said more to her. I wish I had shared with her that though I don’t know what she’s facing today, Jesus does. I wish I had shared with her that Jesus is the answer to our deepest need, to be made right with God. But I failed to give her a reason for the hope that is in me. I failed to share that light with her.
But I am praying for her. Her name is Mary. I don't know if she knows Jesus or not, but I should have tried to find out and once again I was silent when I should have spoken. Won’t you pray for her, too? I’m praying that God will bring someone who will be bolder in compassion and faith than I proved to be this afternoon into that store today to encourage her in Jesus’ Name. And I am praying that I will be better prepared next time to do the same as I confess my lack of boldness today.
3 comments:
I can't know for sure what God has in store, but as I prayed for Mary just now, I was compelled with the idea that you probably did just the right thing for now. I also feel like the Lord will bless you with another opportunity to see Mary and you'll get a chance to tell her you prayed and ask her how she is doing. I think the story isn't over yet. Please don't misunderstand me. I'm not a prophet, nor do I claim to be. I'm just leaving the comment I felt led to leave while praying.
You were already bolder (and kinder) than a lot of people would have been by telling her you'd pray for her. Don't be too hard on yourself :)
I agree with what Kimberly said. I'm willing to bet it was a comfort to her for someone to actually take the time to say something to her and show her some empathy. Plus, when you said you'd pray for her, I know that you meant it sincerely. She will feel the power of your prayer, as well as the prayers of others who read this post. :-)
Oh my friend, we've all been there and done that. Certainly the Spirit is doing His good work of conviction so that next time you will see opportunity to declare the gospel...may I see it as well...thanks for your honesty here and I will certainly pray that the Lord will reach out to Mary...
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