Stop What You’re Doing
If you’ve ever suffered physically in some way from the heat, then you will be able to relate to this experience. You will most likely remember your details like it was yesterday because it’s scary, a bit embarrassing, and a good reminder to be prepared when you’re out in 90 degree temps.
My husband and I like to walk together for exercise. It has been 100 degrees with the heat index here, so we decided to walk on the beach yesterday morning. Getting your feet wet in the ocean and having that sea-breeze makes it bearable.
I’m not sure how far we walked, maybe 3 miles. After we finished, we sat on our beach towels for a while before heading back to our car. It was a beautiful day, but it was sizzling hot. Did I mention that we didn’t bring water?
Walking up the steps from the beach to the cross walk, my heart began to pound and my legs started to feel weak. As soon as I made it across the street, I plopped down on the grass and put my head down between my knees. It. Was. Awful. I wasn’t sure if I was going to pass out or lose my breakfast. Maybe both.
My husband was ahead of me, not realizing what was going on. Goodness, I couldn’t even look up. When I told him I needed water, he grabbed my towel and ran to the water spigots where others were washing off the sand.
The coolness on the back of my neck was definitely a step in the right direction, but I needed more. I needed water.
As you can imagine on a beautiful, sunny day – there were lots of people walking by me – all heading for a fun day at the beach. It became obvious that the last thing they wanted to do was stop to see if there was something they could do. Maybe they were afraid to get involved. Or maybe they thought they weren’t their brother’s keeper.
So, this fisherman was walking our way. He was carrying all his fishing gear and a cooler. If you’re a fisherman, you know how much stuff he was lugging! Wouldn’t you know, he stopped and asked if I needed water. Thank you, God!, for people who are willing to help. I just needed one. I held out my hand. After downing that water, I stayed put for a few minutes and was finally able to get up and walk to the car.
Listen, this story isn’t about me; it’s about the fisherman – someone who took the time to stop. My heart is overflowing with thankfulness for his act of kindness. I hope it inspires you to be like him, and not all the others who were too busy with life to stop.
Matt. 4:19-20 And he said to them “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Immediately they left their nets and followed him. (Photo taken in Palm Beach, Florida)
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