Just Listen...

A few Saturdays ago I was wandering around a book store, trying to find something to read. While visiting the bathroom there was a man in there, scraggly beard, dressed in rags, on crutches, and with one leg amputated from the knee down. He was washing up in the sink. I quickly washed my hands and headed out.

After browsing a bit longer I left the store. As I was driving away I noticed the same elderly standing in the middle of the parking lot as it started to rain. As I pulled away I received a very strong impression to turn around and help the man. But the 'natural man' took over and I started making excuses as to why I didn't need to turn around and help;

I need get home and help my wife and kids.

I really don't have anything to give him.

There has to be organizations that are helping "those" type of people.

I will have other chances to help others.

I should watch a movie tonight.

Oh I like this song on the radio.

On and on the excuses went. I arrived home and helped get the kids to bed. While my wife and I were talking I made the comment that I saw this one-legged man that looked like he needed help and I first thought about helping. Then my wife said "Do you want to go back and give him something?" Finally it broke through my thick skull. We gathered food, clothing, shoes, a jacket and other items and stuffed them in a backpack and off I went. On my way I thought I would find him, give him the backpack full of stuff and maybe even take him to dinner somewhere. Perhaps find a place for him to shower and wash his clothes.

For the next hour I drove around the area, and most of downtown Logan looking for this man. I went into a half a dozen stores asking if anyone saw him. Nothing. I stopped and sat in the car and prayed that I could find this man and help him out. I started thinking of the places he would go for shelter; the bus station, old storage units, an empty car wash. But nothing.

I missed my chance. The spirit practically slapped me across the face and I so easily made up excuses. I drove home feeling horrible. I had the opportunity to help someone but I was too consumed with my wants and needs (ok, that is probably stretching it. They were just plain wants) that I didn't help someone that truly was in need. Someone who the Lord had put in my path to give me a chance to reach out to another. To look beyond myself. I failed.

Don't get me wrong, I didn't go home and lock myself in my room, never to see the light of day again. Live goes on. But I hope I have learned my lesson. In fact, I know I am more aware of those around me now. I sat down and discussed with my family how we can serve others and we came up with 12 different things we can do between now and Christmas. It is day two and I can already see the effect it has had on me and my family.

So open your heart to that still small voice that urges you to reach out and help others. And then act...act now! Don't wait. Don't make excuses. Just serve.

P.S. I have kept that backpack in my truck since that fateful day. Some way, some how I am going to find that man. And when I do I will be ready.

And I will listen.