“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”
Every pastor has a routine, a rhythm, a weekly plan to accomplish sermon preparation, administrative tasks, meetings, and visits that go along with one’s service as a pastor. Of course, unexpected situations sometimes arise. In my weekly routine, I offer the Sunday morning sermon to God. After worship, I ask God to continue to use His word and the seeds that were planted. I then, mentally and spiritually, move on to the next week’s message preparation.
This week was different. God had a different plan in mind. On Monday evening, church leadership was gathered for a church council meeting. There was a lot to discuss and a lot to do as the leaders were working on completing the necessary tasks in the disaffiliation process. The meeting was going to be a long one, and so people brought snacks.
We were on a break, enjoying the snacks when in walks someone I did not know. At first, I thought he was a relative of a church member I had not yet met. As I looked around, though, I realized he was a stranger.
Several members offered him food and drink. A plate of food was prepared for him. He was given his choice of drinks. He found a place off to the side to sit and eat his food. We were all marveling at this amazing act of God. God had sent a stranger. Would we welcome him? Would we treat him as we would treat Jesus?
Sunday’s sermon was being played out before our very eyes!
After talking with the man, we found out he needed transportation. A plan was made, and he was kindly taken into town. I went home that night with gratitude in my heart. God truly is an awesome God! We had seen Jesus, and I, for one, will never be the same! Jesus had revealed Himself to us in the face of a stranger. Things like Monday night may not happen every day. But they can.
Yes, God, I’m paying attention. I’m ready to experience Your presence today in whatever ways You choose to reveal Yourself. May that be so for each of us.
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