Atypical Tuesday

I might call yesterday my typical Tuesday, but since I desire to put the Lord in charge of my days I don't have typical days. Who knows what He has in store for everyday? Nothing exciting happened, at least most folks would not think so. But I see it differently!

Arising from my slumber and sleep I fixed myself a breakfast consisting of cereal and fruit. Then I began my Bible study digging into next Sunday's Sunday School lesson about knowing what you believe and being able to explain it from 1 Peter 3:15-17; Acts 21:40-22:10. This is a much needed lesson for believers since many don't have an adequate understanding of the Christian faith, cannot share it with unbelievers, nor can they give a testimony that would validate their relationship with Jesus Christ.

I love our one Adult class that I lead at Lafayette. We have some new people attending who contribute to the spirit and discussion. Peggy's children's class was back on track with five wonderful children. Praise the Lord! He loves the children and so does Peggy!

Before noon I traveled a mile and half down to Marketplace to get a few grocery items. A lady I did not know greeted me at the checkout telling me that I looked like a prominent medical doctor down in Providence. We had an interesting converstation about that. I told her that when we lived in Providence many people made that mistake. Even though I have been gone from there for 13 years occasionally it still happens. I could get side-tracked and relate several stories about that, all fascinating to me. Once I was uptown Providence when a young teenage girl that I did not know walked by and greeted me quite cheerfully. I barely spoke to her. She turned to her friend and with disgust said, "Why, he didn't even know me." I realized that she thought I was the good Doctor. Later Iwrote an article saying that I am honored to be called Dr. Cole, but my desire was to look like Jesus Christ. I certainly hope people can see Christ in me.

Returning from the grocery I gased up my car. A fellow sitting in another vehicle spoke to me. His enthusiasm made me wonder if he knew me. I went over to talk with him and he said that he did not know me and I did not know him. We had a brief conversation and I shook his hand and thanked him for lifting my spirits. I needed his reminder. I am attempting to cheer people by speaking with a kind and cheerful voice, sometimes mixed with a tad of humor. But I certainly am not Bob Hope.

At 1 o'clock I visited a young man in the county jail whom I have visited several times. He is a tall handsome fellow, a delightful young man. He is hoping to be released this week and says he will be in our services next Sunday with his grandmother. I am hoping to see him there. He is excited about getting his life back on track with Jesus. We have had some honest discussions about what that means. He is willing for me to mentor him using, Survival Kit for New Christians. If we do, it will be a wonderful 11 weeks venture.

From there I journeyed out to the church field where I enjoyed four home visits. One was in the home of a beautiful couple ages 85 and 82. They both suffer from failing health, but manage to be bright and cheeful even when they are physically below par. They are so easy to visit. I would love to take a hidden recorder and save some of their great stories. Several years ago I learned about "energy takers and energy givers." Nobody wants to be around "energy takers" since they will drain your energy and depress you. This couple are "energy givers." One leaves their presence invigorated and refreshed. I thank God for this couple and other folks like them. That is how I want to relate to others.

I got home just as a fellow was arriving to install a new light switch in our laundry room. Yesterday morning Peggy had heard it pop rather loudly when she turned on the light. Amy knew a man from her church who is a handyman and had done some electrical work for her. She gave me his number and I had called him about noontime. He said he would come out at about 6 PM. He and I drove up at our house at the same time. As he replaced the switch I learned that he too is a pastor of a new beginning church in a nearby town. As he was ready to leave I asked about his charge, but he said his work was free. We had a friendly argument and I finally persuaded him to take the money I handed him. After all, he is a young man and surely needed it. Peggy and I are older and well provided for by our gracious heavenly Father during these sunset years. Besides that Peggy talked with him about another project she may need him for in the kitchen.

As I conclude and look back on my Tuesday, I trust that God led my steps and I pray He blessed some folks that I encountered as they blessed me. If so, God be praised! Who knows what today may hold? If I keep my eyes and thoughts on Jesus, it won't be typical either.