May 15, 2025
Several weeks ago, Wayne took our only grandson, Camden, who is 9, to a movie he had been anxiously waiting to see. It was a "guy" movie, so only the two of them went. They were getting a snack before they went into the theater, and Wayne asked Camden if he wanted a frozen icee to drink.
Wayne said Camden's response was priceless. He looked up at him with a surprised look and said, "Buddy, no one has ever asked me if I wanted an icee. I have always asked can I have one, but YOU asked ME."
Now, let me give a side note that we usually do get them an icee if they ask, but normally, we are a little "thrifty" and make them share with one of the other grandchildren. However, this was a special trip for just the guys, and Wayne just casually asked Camden. We have laughed and treasured Camden's response and his reaction on his face. He was just so precious.
The Lord has really impressed some things on my heart just from Camden's response. First of all, don't we all like to be asked? I know I do. I think it is really our responsibility to ask. If we think about it, we encounter people every day who probably just want us to notice and ask.
I think about the times when I have seen someone who just looked upset. I might not even know them, but I should still ask if I can do something, or better yet, just do what I feel like God is telling me to do. You can stop and pray with them; you can offer them assistance financially, depending on the situation. The point is that if we just ask, it could change their perspective because they feel "seen."
I think about the scripture in Philippians 2 that says, "value others about yourself, not looking to your own interest but each of you to the interest of the others." I realize there are many ways this situation could play out, and it might not always be obvious or exactly the same from person to person. However, the truth is that it should not really even matter. Our job is to look to the interests and needs of others. Ask the question, "Are you okay? Can I help?"
We have to learn to stop, take the time, and ask the questions to be able to see and meet the needs of others.
Another thing I think happens when we ask questions is that we show the love of Christ to others. It could be people we know or just people we meet in our daily lives. I hate to admit it, but I know there have been times when I should have shown the love of Christ to someone, but because I was in a hurry or running behind, I just gave a wave and kept going.
Time and time again, when this has happened, God reminds me that His plan will be carried out regardless of me. If I am not obedient to stop, listen, and show love to others, God will certainly impress upon someone else to be obedient and fulfill His plan.
When we are obedient to God, He is able to use us. Several months ago, I felt God prompting me to call an old friend. I had worked with him for several years, and he had retired. His wife had Alzheimer's when we were working together. He loved her so well and retired to take full-time care of her. At the time of his retirement, she had not been aware or talking for quite some time. I called him and I got his voicemail. I left a message just saying I was thinking of him and wanted to check in and see how he was.
Almost immediately after I left the message, he called me back. After I asked how he was, he told me today was his wedding anniversary. I felt so overwhelmed that God had put him on my heart on this very day that he might need a reminder that God loved him. Honestly, it also made me realize how much God loved me. When we are obedient, surrender our time, and place the needs of others above our own, God blesses.
Now don't get me wrong, there are times I have felt God impress something on my heart or to ask someone something, and I might not ever see any results, but I was obedient to what He was asking me to do, and that is what matters. I am responsible for being obedient, and God is responsible for the outcome.
God wants us to ask and assist those we know and those who just cross our daily path. In doing so, we are able to reflect His love, compassion, and humility. Micah 6:8 says the Lord requires us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God." I think we should ask others what we can do to help so we are able to show His love, power, peace, and mercy.
This is really just a reminder to me that people want to know we care. They want to feel loved and seen. God gives us that opportunity if we are just obedient, listen, follow, and care about others. Oh, and just so you know, I will always remember to ask Camden if he wants an icee... priceless!
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Jill Johnson finds spiritual applications in her everyday experiences as a wife, mother, grandmother, and Georgian.
