Grace and Another Day

Everywhere we go, we have an opportunity to share someone's joy or pain.  It does take a moment.  It is not something which is going to happen in the lives of those who are tied to a schedule, rushing from one place to another, and looking so far ahead that the present becomes just a stepping stone to get there.  The hurried life is not really where any of us want to spend our days; yet, knowing and doing do not necessarily hold hands.   

Some people plan fifteen minutes around those "have to be there" moments so that there is time for breathing and seeing the present moment.  Others even dare to ask God in the morning to use them throughout the day as His hands and feet in the places where He goes through us.  For most of us, sharing the burdens and joys of the stranger who shows up in our life requires a life style change.  Such moments cannot be planned.  They are more spontaneous and fleeting.  They are either seized or quickly lost.  Once you walk past them, retracing your steps is impossible. 

I know.  I have lived in regret since an afternoon encounter with a woman whose mother died a few days ago.  I got that part when I asked how she had been doing and her eyes filled with tears.  When we finished the business that brought us together, I walked out without asking if I could offer pray for her.  I have kicked myself all evening.  And while I have, I was ashamed to confess to the Father God my failure to bring a suffering one into His presence through prayer.  Tonight I am grateful for grace and the possibility of another day.