And Now I See
I haven’t been leaving the house much because, you know, healing body, new baby (who’s a milk monster), afraid of all the germs, unpredictable schedules or lack there of schedules - you get it. But, I have been doing Walmart pick up (thank you Jesus for Walmart pickup!!! Am I right?!). But, do you know what God did at my five minute Walmart pick up encounter - He gave me an opportunity. The girl, that was loading up the groceries in my car, saw Aubrey sitting in her car seat and asked me how old she was. After I answered, she proceeded to tell me she was 7 months pregnant, with her first baby, and she was nervous. I immediately jumped into positive affirmations - that it’s hard at first but gets easier with time... that it’s worth it... that I know how she feels and it’s ok to feel that way. And, you could see, in her face, that my words did encourage her - she smiled confidently and walked off. I hopped in my car feeling awesome and then.... I didn’t....
...Why didn’t I point her to Jesus?
The thing about encouragement is it only goes so far, unless you know the one who created it and where you can find more of it.
I completely missed the opportunity He gave me because I didn’t see it coming and I wasn’t ready.
I’m telling you this because I failed and I recognized it. It’s so important that we realize when we miss an opportunity that the spirit places in our path. See, I am a new mom - he knew I could relate to her. He knows I’m not getting out of the house much - he used an ordinary task that was already on my agenda. He knows I’m not one to start or push conversation - he let her speak first to find common ground. And I still MISSED IT.
I want to encourage you today.... we all have missed opportunities at one time or another. And while it doesn’t make me feel awesome that I missed mine, it does make me aware... that even in the most ordinary, mundane moments - God can and will use you. And I pray you recognize that moment and I pray you are ready.
I pray I get an opportunity to see this girl again, because I want her to know that motherhood isn’t easy, but the one thing that has helped me through every tough thing in life is... the one. The only. Jesus Christ.
xo - A