Spirit-Empowered Life

How can all of the strange little events that happen to us simply be coincidences?

I was in a crowded grocery store after work recently, going from aisle to aisle at my usual fast pace, trying to get the shopping over with as quickly as possible. I was checking items off my mental list when I realized there was a disabled man in a wheelchair whom I had seen before. Suddenly a tidal wave of guilt consumed me and nothing seemed terribly important. How odd. Where did this feeling come from? I stood there, fixated on the thought that this man needed someone to help him complete basic tasks like pulling grocery items off the shelf.

How many times had I complained recently about my inability to obtain the things I want? I already have so much for which to be thankful. The cloud of frustration that had been hovering over me for the past few weeks seemed to disperse. How selfish I had been. I was able to practically run down the aisle and get through the checkout line while this man was still struggling to get a few items (granted, he had someone shopping with him). I went home and unpacked my groceries, still obsessed with the guilt I had felt in the store. It was a nagging feeling, like someone was tapping me on the shoulder.

I believe these kinds of experiences are the Holy Spirit breaking through to us. The timing of this event was a little strange, considering two days later the week’s topic was the Spirit-empowered life. We talked about prophecy – hearing the Lord speak to you for the sake of others.

There is a real and ever-present challenge for some of us – perhaps all of us - to step outside of our self-absorption and help others solely for their sake. Maybe I should slow down, pay more attention, even volunteer more. Maybe I should thank that man the next time I see him.  

- Written by: Susan Eick