Meeting others in casual ways over the past 18 months seems like an anomaly. It is peculiar to actually speak with someone in line while unloading groceries, wondering through the aisle with snacks or finding the perfect cake at the bakery through a mask. Appointments though afford the opportunity for a more personal interaction, that is exactly what happened to me recently. I had an appointment at a very familiar place, where I gave birth to four of my five children. It was odd, nothing looked different. I remembered where to go and even the Tim’s was in the same place (although renovated) which made me glad for all the staff that need a good coffee and take a moment to breathe. Thank you frontline workers!

As I entered the zone of familiarity, I met a lovely young technician and had small conversation throughout. I mentioned that I had been through this many times and she asked why and I responded, I have five kids. Her reaction was well, a bit of surprise. I get it. I had no idea over 22 years ago that I would be telling this technician I have five kids! What came out of our small conversation were some big ideas. She wanted to have children but was hesitating due to the state of our world. That is a big idea to grapple with today. She is not alone. I said to her that when you have a family, despite the mess and challenges of our current day the difference is that you are in the mess together and it is worth the perceived risk to become a mom. There must be so many more like her in their mid to late 20’s wondering if it is worth bringing children into the world. I don’t recall my exact words, but I spoke briefly about being thankful that God was in control. I am not sure if she has had a conversation like ours before or will again after, but I firmly believe that these moments are God-ordained. I wondered after I left will she reconsider and have hope for children she wants? God knows. I will pray for her.

Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him. (Psalm 127:3)

Not long after that I was met by someone else that appeared to be in conflict. It made me wonder what was going on inside of his heart, mind and soul. Emotions overwhelmed me as I thought about our world. I had to walk away through the aisles of Shoppers and hold back the tears. So much pain and hopelessness. The headlines are littered with grief, sadness, political divide with  the odd sprinkle of Olympic dreams unfolding to the world. I also knew that I was days away from sending the next child to university. I think I was already a mess before I left the house. In that same errand I had an older gentleman notice my slow walk and I told him to please go ahead of me as I was much slower than he! He nodded his head and we had a brief exchange about what had  happened and he left me with this, “Well, be thankful you have two feet.” It was quite the trip. By the time I made it back to my truck I found myself in tears thankful for my two feet, strangers that actually spoke through the masks, the person that appeared to be in conflict and that I was able to do these errands and have medical appointments when women around the world do not.

My mom came for a visit the other day and as we were talking she spoke about a song that ministered to her in a special way. I found it and wow did it ever move me. I speak Jesus reminded me about my words to others on a daily basis. Whether at home or out do I speak life-giving words as I go. Enjoy this song, thank you  mom for sharing it with me!

“May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer” (Psalm 19:14).

 

 

I Speak Jesus| Here Be Lions & Zschech (Official Music Video)