Noticing Others

We all have needs. Some large, (as those experiencing the recent hurricanes) and some that may seem small; but needs just the same.

My daughter Karli, has always been very astute at noticing people around her. She sees a stranger crying at the beach; she talks to her and tries to help. Once she saw an older woman walking home with groceries, and she helped her and became a friend. It always inspires me how she sees and cares for others.

I care about others; but sometimes I don't notice a need. I get busy with my lists of errands and tasks to complete, and walk right by people without paying much attention.

So, one day I prayed in the parking lot of the grocery store. "Lord, make me more aware of those around me, especially their needs.”

Before I entered the store, I noticed a man sitting in a wheelchair. He held a sign asking for money or food. I’m ashamed to say, I’ve seen him before and wondered about his situation. But that was as far as it went. But not today. I decided to do something about it. I visited with him for a few minutes and told him I would give him his breakfast on my way back to my car. I added a bagel and some orange juice to my list and headed into the store. 

As I walked down the aisles to find the groceries on my list, I noticed an elderly man. He had a list in his hand (maybe from his wife?), and a confused look on his face. I realized this was another opportunity to reach out. I asked if he needed help finding something. He showed me the list with an eight ounce can of tomato sauce. I assured him that he was in the right section, and pointed him toward the correct size can. He thanked me, and before I could walk away, he asked if I knew where he could find another item on his list. I smiled and said, “Sure, follow me.” We walked to the aisle that held his next item. He was so sweet and thanked me again.

After this I thought to myself, “There are people everywhere that need to see the love of God in action.” 

I headed to the checkout stand and felt thankful I had shown some kindness to others. I waited my turn, paying little attention to those around me. I planned on paying for my groceries, dropping off the bagel and juice with the man in the wheelchair, and heading home. 

Just then I heard the lady in front of me talking about being pregnant. She was getting close to her due date. I’ve always had a soft spot for young moms, so as she looked at me, I asked her how she was feeling. She spoke of her fears, aches and pains. I shared some encouraging words from my experiences, and told her I would pray for her. 

Then I paid for my groceries, dropped off the man’s breakfast and headed to my car.

I was both blessed and overwhelmed. So many people…so many needs. It may not have been much, but for me, it was rather exhausting. 

It made me think of Jesus, and the multitudes that followed after him in need of teaching, advice, healing, etc. He was God yet in human form. He must have felt physically and mentally drained. But his love and compassion met the needs of those around him.

I’m thankful that if I’m willing, God can fill me with his spirit to help others in need. Whether at home, work, or in the grocery store. There are needs everywhere.

“Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”         

Galatians 6:2