On my way down to Branson, MO on Monday to attend CAST (Chaplain Annual Sustainment Training) we stopped at Wendy's for lunch.  Now that probably seems like a logical thing to do when you are on the road for seven hours.  Well as we stood in line the four of us were talking about this weeks training and the upcoming deployment (3 of the 4 are deploying)  As I waited to order the gentleman behind me asked if we were National Guard and I replied yes that we were Chaplains from Iowa and deploying this summer.  He told me his grandson is in the Air Guard and heading to Afghanistan as well in August.  I placed my order and this same gentleman asked if he could have the honor of paying for my meal!

What a humbling experience - he said he was just so grateful for all we did and thanked me.  When I got to the table and told my friends they too were grateful for his attitude - - though they wondered why I didn't tell him I had three friends LOL I told them that's what they got for ordering first! 

I often struggle with receiving as I see my life and my purpose as giving to others - to helping others not only spiritually but also physically when I can.  Yet here was a man who I have no idea what his faith beliefs are; that was willing to give in a small way to support someone else.  In a way I believe he saw an opportunity to do his part for his grandson where he was otherwise powerless to do anything.

How often do we miss those opportunities to bless another person because we are too consumed in our own worlds - our own problems and issues.  Jesus said that it is more blessed to give than to receive - how true! 

Take the time as you are standing in line - instead of getting frustrated or irritated because it's taking so long and you are on a tight schedule - instead of thinking about all the problems, stresses in your life - LOOK UP - LISTEN.  Perhaps God has placed someone in your path he wants you to bless in some way.  It might not be monetarily - perhaps it could just be a smile - or to strike up a conversation. 

As we come to Trinity Sunday this week allow the Spirit of God to work and to nudge you into the situations where you can be of use to Him.  Or as we said last Sunday - Let the Wild Goose Loose and you might be amazed.