How may I help you?

Who knew that five words could make such an impact on someone?

I recently took my 1-year-old grandson to the grocery store. I only needed two items, therefore, we were going to zip in and zip out. He loves to ride in the cart, so going to the store isn’t something I dread – it’s a blessing.

Wouldn’t you know, this sweet little guy fell asleep on the way there, so I grabbed a small cart to help me out. Did you know that a sleeping baby is heavier than one that’s not?  Sweat was starting to break out on my forehead as I went from one end of the store the other.  This could be because I’m not in the best shape anymore. Ha.  

When I walked up to the self-checkout area, I was relieved to see that they weren’t busy. As a matter of fact, the  only person around was the employee who was assigned to work that area.

I quickly scanned the items and clicked “pay now” on the screen. That’s when the challenge began. Keep in mind, I was still carrying my grandson since he was still asleep. I finally got my purse off my shoulder and put it in my cart. I opened it up, but had a difficult time getting my credit card out of the slot it was safely tucked in. Do you know how hard it is to get something out that seems stuck without being able to use two hands? I looked up at the employee, hoping she would walk over and offer some help, but I guess she doesn’t get paid enough to go above and beyond her specified responsibilities. At least that’s what ran through my mind because she didn’t budge. Thankfully, I finally managed to get the card out with one hand. The rest was a breeze.

As I walked out of the store, I couldn’t help but think about that employee. Sure, it wasn’t like I was dying, however, it sure would’ve made my day if she had offered a hand.

I wonder how many opportunities I, or we, miss because we are so focused on sticking to what we are required to do, day in and day out. I pray this illustration will encourage you in some way to keep your eyes open to help someone who could use a helping hand. Be the example. Be like Jesus.

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2

“What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”James 2:14-17