Rick and I had similar experiences on Monday, and it was cool because we both took away the same thing.
I was driving home from Target. Micah was with me, tired and ready for a nap, but not quite ballistic. I had nothing pressing to do. I was driving through a fairly poor neighborhood, a short-cut for me, and saw an older lady, probably 50's or 60's, walking towards town. She was using a cane and moving slowly and somewhat painfully, from my observation. She also had her purse, making it clear to me that she was headed shopping. She had quite a hike ahead of her and it looked like it would be a tough walk.
I contemplated stopping and turning around. I even slowed down while I thought about it, and watched this lady struggle down the road from my rearview. I really can't tell you exactly why I didn't. My only good excuse is that I was afraid. Oh what, I am not sure. Probably that she would think I was a freak or a weirdo and I would be embarrassed. Great reason! It couldn't have been fear of being hurt or attacked by her. Micah has already taken down bigger folks than her! I just can't tell you exactly why I didn't stop.
So I had major regret. I told Rick about it and he shared a similar experience that happened to him that same afternoon. He actually did turn around, but by the time he got back, someone else had taken to opportunity to help. We both felt totally bummed that we didn't take the chance to be used to help. We decided that the next day, yesterday, we would live with no regrets for not acting when the spirit moved us.
I am so thankful that I had another chance yesterday. A new friend, not from church, called and we talked about something really tough she is going through. It took me the last 30 MINUTES of the call but I finally got brave enough to ask her if we could get together that night and pray. That is totally out of my comfort zone, unfortunately. I have much to learn, especially as a ministers wife! But what an AWESOME blessing. We talked and prayed for 3 hours and I was so blessed by it.
I am thankful for another chance to be moved by the spirit and once again, I am renewing my commitment to live today with no regrets. Have you had any regrets lately?
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2 comments:
I don't have this problem. I think I get it from my dad, but if I see somebody that needs something, I am quick to help. I saw an older lady feeding an older lady at Applebees and asked if I could help. Found out the older of the two was in diabetic shock. We called the ambulence. We even prayed with them and talked about God's love for us.
Here's my regrets: I can reach out to a stranger, but I don't do well inviting people I know to experience God with me (whether at church or at a fellowship or whatever.) Teresa, I KNOW you and Rick are great about this, You talked about it this morning, people who come to church at your invitation.
So here's what I think: some are good at one, and not the other. So excell at what you're good at, and work on improving on the other as well. But know that God uses everyone, their special and unique abilities, gifts and personalities to get His message out.
You know, that's something that I think about constantly. The last time I saw someone on the side of the road, I actually turned around to help and they said they already had a tow truck on the way and they were fine. But I also think of all the opportunities I pass up, like yours with older people involved that really don't appear to be any threat whatsoever...but I have some fear for an unknown reason. I like the idea of living with no regrets and not being afraid to do what's right. I'm so excited that you were able to be blessed by relinquishing your fear and offering help to your friend. That is truly an inspiration!
Heather
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