Every once in a while, something completely ordinary happens that sets me back on my heels and causes me to rethink everything. A few weeks ago, I had just such a moment at church.

As I was checking my phone and reading the bulletin, waiting for the service to start, I was tapped on the shoulder by a sweet older lady who asked if I would give the cup of water she had to the lady at the end of my pew. I was happy to help, so I said, sure! I slid across the pew and handed the lady the cup of water. She looked up at me like I was her long-lost friend, and said thank you, and began to drink. Immediately, I saw her eyes brighten as she straightened up in her seat. It was the thank-you that got me started. I thought — I did nothing. It was her friend from two pews back that got her the water. So, I looked back at her friend, and she thanked me as well, and I still had done nothing! I didn’t know what to think.

Pure Kindness

I had found myself in the middle of an exchange of pure kindness, and I was humbled. How did I miss the need when I was sitting three feet from it? To be fair, I didn’t know her situation as well as the lady who thought to get water, but still. To see things like this, you need to look for them, and there I sat, in church no less, oblivious to the people around me and never giving one thought to what needs they might have or what I might do to help them.

Eyes to See

It made me wonder how many times a day I walk past opportunities to help other people without even realizing it. This simple act of kindness had a power that really surprised me. Jesus once said,

For the one who is not against us is for us.

I’m not sure I ever thought about that passage much until that day. But another passage comes to mind that is even more sobering. It is found in Matthew 25.

‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father,

This Week

Jesus often healed the blind. After this encounter, I felt like I was blind. This week, I am praying that Jesus will open my eyes to the people around me and allow me to see the need and where I can help. I pray we all slow down and look around with the eyes of Jesus to see the needs of others. May we all help each other to see and help each other to serve. It may be as simple as a drink of water, but a simple drink of water can be a powerful thing when given with the right heart.

Have a great week!