I loved having a Saturday ahead of me with some time for some of my favorite things. I awoke early, so I could take as long as I wanted to run and ride my bike. Beautifully cool morning, sunny, wonderful in every way. As I exercised my old body, I prayed for some precious friends. I was awed at all the events going on this weekend – and even more awed that our God was “on” each and every one of them! He was compelling me to pray, and I so enjoyed being part of each of these events by interceding.
Later, in my quiet time, I read this verse ~ “You do not know what a day may bring.” Proverbs 27:1 (NRSV) I pondered it, but didn’t really think on it for too long. After taking my time with my God, I got ready, and headed out. I had plans to go visit a craft show where a friend had a booth of some of her treasures. I felt the need to support and encourage her! (ok, and shop) Once I arrived at the show, I scanned the map, and couldn’t find my friend. So I just meandered through the maze of delights. Nothing really spoke to me though, until I arrived at this one booth…….
A delightful woman (the owner) greeted me by commenting on my purse. Not unusual these days – the one I’m carrying was so super cheap, and cute, and many strangers have approached me asking about it. We struck up a short conversation as I looked at her items. A really pleasant place, and she had some darling things. Still, nothing out of the ordinary going on. I decided to buy a top – great price, and I knew I would so enjoy it. As she rang me up, we continued talking, and suddenly I realized the ordinary had just become anything but……
She told me about her sons, two of them. And of her husband. Who had just died this year. Oh. My. I instantly got tears in my eyes. And had to hug her. Apparently they had no idea he was sick. When he was diagnosed, his cancer was stage 4. Nothing they could do. She talked, and talked, and talked. So strong, so tender, so beautiful as she spoke of him. She told of how great her boys had been. Explained that she could not have survived without God. (I’m beginning to see His hand in this day. this moment. And I was immediately relieved that she knew Him.) She shared some of her husband’s last days, how he died 3 days after their 15 year anniversary. Their anniversary was the last day he spoke. She shared some really sweet things God did during those final days. As she spoke, I realized I was challenged to wonder how I would have done at that age, faced with those circumstances. Would I have had her faith? Would my countenance have appeared as peaceful as hers?
She kind of smiled and wondered aloud why she was even sharing all this. I mentioned how touched I was, and how thankful I was that she had God to share this season with. And how everytime I wore my new shirt, I would pray for her.
We talked some more, and I got her card. I knew I would need to contact her later on to check on her. To send her something. Eventually I needed to move on. She had other customers. I hugged her, and left her booth. It had been such a sacred time. I thought that was it.
I finally found my friend, talked a bit, then shopped her booth. I thought still that she was the reason why I came all the way out to this show. As I looked at her beautiful things, I saw a couple things that spoke to me, and made me think of my new friend. I felt like I should get something for her. I continued to move through this booth, when all of a sudden, I saw it. A little (adorable) plaque with Jeremiah 29:11 on it – the verse my new friend said the Lord continued to comfort her with. I knew I had to get it for her. I knew once I told my sweet husband this story, he would have wanted me to get it too. It was providential, that I knew. I quickly paid for it, and practically ran back to my new friend’s booth.
She asked me what I was doing. I told her I bought a little something for her – to encourage her as she continues to heal. I told her it had her verse on it. In essence, honestly, I totally believe the Lord wanted to give her something today. She was surprised, for sure. I didn’t stay long. Since she had more customers, I left after another hug with this precious woman who had been a stranger just a half hour before.
I believe God planned this meeting today. As a matter of fact, I’m sure of it. I also know beyond a shadow of a doubt that he wanted her to have that gift. Just the fact that He let me participate blesses me so.
It wasn’t until I finished the rest of my errands, and had arrived home, that I realized what else God had done with this sweet ministry moment today…….He had shown me such tenderness since I had been feeling a bit sad over missing a retreat I had been a part of for the last dozen years. One of those events I had been praying for earlier during my run was a high school retreat that I had always participated in. until now. Then He allows me an opportunity to share sacred time with this precious young widow. So totally different, but so totally God. “You do not know what a day may bring.” But if you are willing, you can be totally assured God will lead you into His plan. The results may very well amaze you.
Oh Nancy—you SHINE and RADIATE Jesus wherever you go! I know she was so incredibly blessed by your meeting. You are such a precious friend!
And what was the part about exercising your “old body?” Seriously….you are not old. Haven’t you heard?? 50 is the new 40! 🙂
Guess, just guess how many guests we had for brunch today at church???? 170 meals were prepared! To God be the glory!!! From 30 to 170, so exciting!!
Happy Sunday to you!
Much love!!
mw
What a precious account of your day, ….God shining in all His Glory. Thanks for sharing this! It warmed my heart. As I read this post, I am reminded that I need not take any day for granted, and let God lead the way! Something that I don’t do often enough! Hugs! Stace
I’m so glad I got on here tonight. I wasn’t going to, since I had been on here so recently and didn’t figure you would not have posted again so soon. (Since you’re not as obsessed with writing like I am.) What a sweet moment. I can’t wait until we get to meet in real life. Probably not in this life, but thankfully this life is not all we have! (It’s cold here. Very cold. I haven’t checked, but I’m sure it’s below freezing and my husband is in the woods camping so he can shoot a deer this week. Brrr! He’s taking Jeremiah tomorrow as soon as he gets out of school. It would be exciting if Jeremiah got his first deer this week.)
Love from your friend,
Shellie
Hey, Nancy. Read my blog and tell me what you think of my book so far. I’ve copied and pasted several segments from it onto my blog. Read and comment on as many as you can. I need to know if I’m any good at this.
that was beautiful 🙂 and blessed me so much!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!
Nancy, I’m just now catching up on a lot of blogs. I just read this and it blessed me so much! You are so loved because you LOVE so well! What a wonderful Jesus moment. You inspire me, friend!