"Faith without works is dead"

Today was one of the first days I joined the mass of bread-milk-and-eggs buyers. I didn't need all of those things, but I still had to go the grocery store. After purchasing all of my items, I had an interesting experience while standing in the check-out line.

There was a woman ahead of my who was trying to use a WIC coupon or whatever it is called. The cashier was having a difficult time making the register accept the coupon and applying it to the certain items she was purchasing. He was being really friendly and was doing the best he could, but after fifteen minutes, the woman was starting to get impatient. The whole time I was standing behind her I could sense depression and heart-ache which made my heart ache as well.

When the coupon was finally applied she owed seventy-five cents. She chuckled to herself, shook her head and proceeded to get out her debit card. She gathered her things and left the store and unfortunately forgot one bag worth of groceries. I did notice and tried to tell the casheir, but he was not comprehending what I was trying to tell him.

After I bought my items and started to drive home, thoughts flooded my mind. Praying for a person is excellent, but what does that show a pereson who may not know the Lord? How is silently praying encouraging my fellow-man? The verse "...faith without works is dead." It's truth hit me like a hammer against a nail. I could have done so many practical things to show this woman the love of Christ. I could have given her the money to pay for her purchase. I could have taken the bag and ran after her. But, what did I do? I stood there like an idiot. It is times like these that I really wish I could go back in time. However, all I can do now (which is something and important) is pray that God gives her an extra special blessing.

Thank you, Lord

The smell of brownies, which ended up extra-crispy. The idea of soft, chewy, chocolate cookies makes me smile. Smiling has been rare lately. Some days I wake up crying, despising the place I live. Some days I look at my husband and question getting married so young. Especially now when I have to make a decision between school and a baby. How many twenty-year-olds need to make a decision about those two things? Do I want to finish my education and possibly not get a job because I am pregnant? Or do I want to have a baby and start taking care of a family full-time?

But some nights like tonight, a quiet night, my mind full of anticipation about returning home, I am just happy and content with my life. I look at my husband and cannot imagine myself with anyone else. I take a bite of something I made and just enjoy the thought that I made this. I would have never cooked so often if I were at home. I had no reason. I know my Mom would have loved it if I would have offered, but I never had any real incentive.

Thank you, Lord for taking care of me. Thank you, Lord, that with you I can be happy. Thank you that I can do anything through you. And thank you, Lord for chocolate.