“Have you ever had a chat with someone you didn’t know and afterwards realized they were sent by God?”
That is exactly what occurred to me the other day. When an older guy approached us, I was pulling my grocery cart full to the brim with children and food around the supermarket. He couldn’t help himself when he spotted the kids and came over to talk to us. He kept talking about how cute they were and asking them questions. My children, thankfully, were agreeable and answered his questions. He departed on his way after a quick conversation with us.
He came running back to us a little while later.
‘I want to tell you something,’ he continued, looking me in the eyes. He then began telling a story about his five-year-old son. His youngster had requested that he construct a birdhouse. He declined because he was too preoccupied with ‘essential’ professional matters.
He felt bad for breaking his son’s heart as he watched his disappointed five-year-old slouch off without sobbing or making a fuss. He returned his son’s call. They went to the store together to obtain the materials and then built the birdhouse together.
To cut a long tale short (he said), he has no recollection of the work he was doing or what made it so vital 40 years later.
‘But we still have that birdhouse,’ he replied, looking me in the eyes. My eyes welled up with tears almost instantly. Even though I spend most of my days with my children, I don’t always give them my undivided attention. I participate in events with them just half-heartedly. I make a big deal about them. Chores, my to-do list, and my phone keep me distracted.
This man may never realize how much he helped me slow down and be more intentional with my family by stopping me in my tracks, adjusting my priorities, and inspiring me to slow down and be more intentional with my family.
God places people in our path to assist us in finding our way. Be open to the message the next time a stranger approaches you with something to say. It has the potential to change your life!
When we talk to strangers, life happens!”