Serendipitous Encounters

I could not escape the subway car fast enough. From the corner of my eye, I spotted the guesstimated 8-month pregnant figure making its way toward my section. The modestly dressed young woman claimed to need food and shelter. Her erratic gestures and matted long hair triggered apprehension around her. “Please open” I begged the double steel doors as the brakes screeched. I skirted out passed the rush hour crowd and meandered up the concrete stairs.

Safely in my office building, my conscience relentlessly nagged me. I attempted to placate her with assertions like “it’s understandable, I was low on cash, I did not want to be late.” Unconvinced, my higher self overtook the internal discourse. Surely, I could have offered a positive word or simply an acknowledgement.

What does it mean to give encouragement? We see it en masse at ball games when an entire assembly is routing for its team. Then there is the clichéd vignette that many can relate to of the mother wiping away her child’s tears. Less overtly, I believe God cleverly orchestrates opportunities for us to provide hope to others in our daily lives. A smile and greeting to a stranger entering an elevator may have a strong impact on someone who is feeling depressed and insignificant. A compliment to a frail and sickly co-worker undoubtedly energizes the spirit. And a frightened and destitute expectant mother could have been comforted by a nod and gleaming look.

Such offers of encouragement fulfill us as well. The character of the giver is strengthened as we emulate the One who provided the ultimate consolation on the Cross. In this season of Pentecost, receive the Spirit of the Lord and be empowered to give support. As witnesses of Christ, we will be lead down the rode of everlasting.

Acts 1:8 “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere – in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”