Who's at your table?

Paul was declaring, "I still face problems, but the Lord has given me what I need for the battle. He has refreshed me through Titus." 2 Corinthians 7:4.

I just heard my husband, Jeff speak the phrase "I thought I would be eating at his table, but I never thought he would be eating at mine."

Last week my husband had an opportunity to do something he has wanted to do for many years. He went to another city and met with a man of God that he has admired for years. His hope of just meeting this man and shaking his hand was something that burned in his heart. Not that he (my husband) thought he was anyone special to be able to say anything to this man; he simply wanted to meet this very humble, Godly man. When the opportunity arose, he stepped out, and purchased his airline ticket and hotel and went.

Upon his arrival at the church, approximately two hours before the time of introduction, he went into the sanctuary, sat, read his Bible, and prayed for a time. When the appointed time arrived, he had the opportunity he had waited for, for over 35 years. It was something very different from what he expected. What do you say to someone like that? He prepared nothing ahead of time, but shared his testimony about how this man had been a very important part of his finding Jesus. After a short time, this man asked Jeff a question. You see, after our daughter died in May of 2000, Jeff wrote to this man and shared how God had used our tragic circumstance to help change many lives. They spoke of this letter and the circumstances. He asked Jeff "how were you able to continue to walk in joy despite the circumstances?" Jeff replied, "It was the Peace of God that served as my joy."

It is difficult for a man to do all that he does in serving God, and take care of an ailing wife, as well as everything else he must be responsible for many other things. He was a man in need of encouragement! Just as Paul says about Titus in the above scripture reference, apparently God used Jeff in the same way to encourage this pastor! Jeff went thinking this man could speak something into his life, and it ended up being the total opposite situation, Jeff was the encourager.

After Jeff left the church, he felt completely inadequate, and very humbled. We simply never know what God will do in us when we step out in faith to do something. Step out in faith as you serve God!

Father, teach me to trust that as I go forward in life You will guide my steps and give me the words I need just when I need them. Amen.

Becki Reiser