A Prayerful Moment

I would have thought shopping was out of people's systems by now, but the stores were packed today! So everywhere we went there was a line. Walmart was the first line we stood in (after spending an hour traipsing around the store). And while I was standing there I gave the kids each 50 cents to go spend in the game room while I waited. At that moment, I saw the red stone that was in my change purse.

A month or so ago, the pastor did a children's moment on we can use things to help us start off a witnessing moment. He gave each of the children a blood red stone and told them they could carry it in their pocket or change purse. Then he said, when you are paying for something, that red stone will be there and perhaps you will be asked what it is. You can tell the person that it is a reminder of Jesus that you carry with you. A reminder of the ultimate sacrifice that he made for you. Our pastor also made these stones available to the adults in the congregation.

So I put one in my wallet and today while I was standing in line, getting out my gift card and coupon and debit card, I saw that red stone. I took it out and held it in my hand and thought about what it represented to me. Then I looked at the long line I was standing in and the line beside me and I prayed for each person in that line and for the cashiers as well. I prayed for their general well being, for God to touch their hearts and to bless them in 2008. I prayed for patience, good humor, and love for each of them. And as I looked at each person, if there was something I noticed, I would add that into my prayer. Like the lady who had three children and was looking tired. Or the woman who seemed like she was in such a hurry.

It was a wonderful way to spend my time waiting in line. I highly recommend it!