ANOTHER PRAYER FROM A STRANGER

My friend Debbie and I were chatting over cups of coffee when the topic of prayer came up. She mentioned my recent post* about my annoyance when a stranger stopped to bless me, and then asked a thought-provoking question:

“What would have made the blessing easier for you to receive?”

I immediately recalled another time, eight years ago…

My daughter Angie and I were shopping for groceries when a petite, dark-haired woman approached us and timidly asked, “Would it be alright if I prayed for you?”

She could see that I was undergoing treatment for cancer, since I was wearing my chemo cap and mask. The kind woman shyly explained that she normally would never do this, but an overwhelming feeling had prompted her to ask. I noticed her discomfort, but I also saw her humble and earnest desire to bless me. I willingly accepted.

So, in the middle of the produce section, we held hands and she quietly prayed for me. I don’t recall her words, but I vividly remember the feeling. She seemed like an angel, and the moment became sacred as our connection deepened beyond the two of us. Her gentle presence and her heartfelt concern left me glowing as we went on our way. I felt truly and genuinely blessed.

My blessing at the park was audibly proclaimed through a courageous loudspeaker.

My blessing at the grocery store was quietly transmitted through a humble conduit.

I trust that God loves us beyond our limited understanding, beyond our human prayers. But if our intention is to truly bless others, it seems that we should first be attentive to them. Our prayers might be better received if they come from a spirit of grace and humility, and from thoughtful care for another’s hopes, needs, and comfort level. A genuine blessing will avoid assumptions and confrontations and instead, await discernments and invitations.

A blessing truly blesses when we can help someone feel uplifted by our encounter–and assured of God’s love through our sensitive and caring presence. I will always tenderly remember the stranger who did this for me.

*https://simplysoulsearching.com/2023/05/21/i-dont-know-how-all-of-this-works/

Photo by Fikri Rasyid on Unsplash. Thank you.