Monday, April 16, 2012

SHE WAS RUDE

Everyone seemed in a hurry to leave church that morning. I noticed an older lady just ahead of me who kept getting pushed back, not able to step out to the aisle. When I got to her pew I waved my hand for her to step in front of me. I gave her my biggest smile. She stepped out of the pew and looked toward the floor. No smile, not even a 'good morning' to me. Hmmmmm, I thought. I was so nice to her.
I followed her, along with many other people to the line leading to the Pastor. Once again she was being pushed out of the way. So, once again I waited for her to step in front of me. Again, no smile or any words to me. I heard the Pastor ask, "how are you today?" She answered, "not so good". He said, "we're praying for you". She nodded and moved forward.
It was then I noticed the tell tale scarf around her head. Her pale complexion and her staggered, weak gait. 
I was so ashamed of myself. I judged her, not having a clue why she wasn't friendly. She is very ill. 
I greeted the Pastor and then pushed past everyone. She was just outside the double doors, trying to make her way to the parking lot. Holding on to the railing. I tapped her on the shoulder. She stopped and turned to face me. I wrapped my arms around her and told her "I'm going to pray for you."
We both had tears in our eyes and I felt the holy spirit move within me when I saw the smile on her lips. 
I have never seen her before, and I don't even know her name. But I've added her to my daily prayer journal. And I've asked the Lord to forgive my quick judgment.
Psalm 41:3 The Lord will sustain him on his sickbed and restore him from his bed of illness.

4 comments:

Carol J. Garvin said...

My hubby always says I have a sixth sense about people, and in a way it's true. But I don't always take time to make use of it. Because I'm introverted and don't really enjoy socializing I tend to murmur greetings and move on, so unless I make a concerted effort I often don't see beyond the superficial. Your story reminds me to take a closer look.

You have such a beautiful heart, Katt! I can imagine your loving gesture made a huge difference in that woman's day.

Kathryn Neff Perry, PhD, MA, LMHC said...

I think I've been blessed with that sixth sense too, but that particular Sunday that "sixth sense" must have been thinking about lunch. I'm so glad the Lord touched my heart when He did, and I was able to catch that precious lady before she made it to her car. I wouldn't know how to find her. I'm still praying for her. I can see her face, and the smile.....after I hugged her.

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

I second what Carol said. Katt, you have a wonderful wonderful heart. I feel very blessed to know you.

Kathryn Neff Perry, PhD, MA, LMHC said...

Ahhhh shucks! Joylene you are too sweet!