Without Sacrifice, we have nothing.
Spirit led occurrences strike a sensitive cord within my heart and I’m not sure why. Maybe I am fearful that the words are thrown around too lightly. Whatever the cause, a recent interaction put my prior hesitancy at peace.
As I walked out of target yesterday, I heard a desperate request.
Would you please give me money to buy groceries for my family?
I quickly turned around to a young woman, slowly rocking her baby back and forth in a stroller. I hurriedly responded that I was out of cash and kept walking. Yet as I walked away, three beckoning words stilled my heart.
Least of these.
I knew at that moment what I was supposed to do. Throwing my bags in the car, I quickly walked back to reenter the store- this time for someone else.
Before walking in I asked her basic questions: her name, her situation, her needs. With a thick Russian accent she replied that she had been in the states 3 months. Her hope was to clean houses in America to provide better means for her family but had not found any work. After this brief introduction, I told her I would be right back. I purchased a target gift card, and placed it in her hands a few minutes later. I explained that I hoped it would help and asked if I could pray for her. Her nod led me to humbly pray a blessing over this woman and child.
As I parted I felt bewildered. What just happened? My flesh deemed the situation sketchy, but my solid conviction rebuked my insecurities- for this action was not me.
I say all of this not to shed light on myself but to marvel at the sincerity and compassion of my God. I believe He used this interaction to provide for this woman but even more as a humble reminder of His constant grace in my life. He chose my monetary sacrifice to portray His ultimate Sacrifice.
So I sit… overwhelmed with gratitude that the King of Kings gently interrupted my errand to reveal Truth. I can only pray that my experience has a similar affect on the woman God used to richly bless me. Most importantly, I pray that her sheer desperation is fulfilled with something much more satisfying than a few groceries.
Lord, would you please continue to send your Holy Spirit to grant me wisdom, grace, and love in each situation I am faced with? Thank you for loving me, using me, and teaching me despite my sinful ways. Your majesty is unspeakable, your love is unfathomable, your grace is completely sufficient.
