On a rare trip to the inside of the grocery, I noticed most people hurrying past the Salvation Army bellringer. No eye contact, and especially no hello or Merry Christmas to her was offered. I supposed people were afraid it would cost them a donation. My attitude was taking a turn for the worse so I checked it at the door.
Inside was a flurry of activity. School is out for Christmas break, and kids were excited just to be at the grocery store. “Mom, could we get this? Mom, I really want some of these. Mom, Mom, Mom!” Poor mothers were trying to finish shopping while kids were requesting items not on the list or in the budget. I spied one young mother longingly check the price of a turkey and then ham. Reluctantly she put both back and went to the reduced section where she picked up some marked down ground meat. The four kiddos danced around the packaged lunches down a ways that all kids love but were good when she shook her head no. For a family of six, her cart was surprisingly scant. I crossed paths with them again as I went down the toy aisle checking for stocking stuffers for my four grands. The kids were eager to offer opinions even though they were much younger than my grands are.
I was delayed at the pharmacy for a short bit but ended up in line next to the delightful family. After flagging down a worker, I asked him to hurry and get a ham, turkey, dozen lunchables, and some toys the kids had ogled. I was ready to check out and the mother was next in line next door so I needed him to hustle. He did. With the help of “Ryan” I was able to get these bought and later loaded into her van without her knowing. He even contributed some items he knew she needed since she shops there often.
At her checkout time the mama did not have enough food stamps to pay so she started to put things back. The person in back of her asked “for the privilege of paying for your order” and even added some items from his cart and the candy display. I heard the woman say through tears she had prayed for a miracle and thanked the man for allowing God to use him.
That day God used me, Ryan, and another man to provide groceries and toys for a faithful, praying woman. I tell you this not for any glory for myself at all, but for God. He is Jehovah Jirah, our God that provides. Answering prayers is just in a His nature. He will use you if you just make yourself available and ask.
Friends, I am abundantly blessed and that could have easily been me or one of my children except for the Grace of God. If you are nudged this season by Abba, please follow through with it. Let Him use you as the vessel to answer someone’s prayer. You will end up being blessed.
Abba's Prayer Warrior Princess 