One of my favorite things about the Christmas season is the Salvation Army bell-ringers! I love the sound of hope the bells sing. I remember giving our kids money on the way into the store and on the way out of the store so they could drop their pennies into the bright red bucket! The bible says, “It is more blessed to give than receive,” Acts 20:35. It is satisfying and purposeful when we live life with open hearts, open hands and open wallets ready to be used by God to be a blessing to others. Mario and I have lived our lives throughout the years with hearts wide open for those around us, but last week God surprised me.
Wednesday evening I went to Wal-Mart to get a few things and to pick up baking supplies, as Thursday was my BIG baking day! As I was leaving the house I realized I had forgotten my purse in Mario’s car that was at the church. Ugggh! I had some cash so I decided I would carefully get only the things I needed. As I walked through the store, doing the math in my head, I was sure I was within budget! As I approached what seemed to be a very short line, I realized the woman in front of me was having trouble. There was a discrepancy in price with an item. I felt a tingle of irritation go through me and quickly reminded myself that was wrong, so I took my attention elsewhere. As I looked away, my eyes caught the eyes of a lady that was joining our line, I smiled, and she did not. No worries, it was now my turn! I had placed everything on the conveyer belt in order of need. As the cashier began to scan the items at a certain point I asked her for a subtotal, I was over by $11!!!! I told the cashier I did not have enough cash, that my wallet was in my husband’s car and I needed to take a few items off. I could feel the penetrating eyes on me from my fellow line people and I could see in their eyes the same kind of irritation I had for the previous purchaser. I began to search through the bags when the lady behind me, the one who had not smiled at me, spoke up to the cashier, “How much is she short?” I quickly looked at her and said oh it’s a lot, I’m so sorry; I’ll be done in a moment. The cashier however said without hesitation, “$11!”Then the lady behind me said “Merry Christmas” and gave the cashier $11! I began to say, “Oh no that is not necessary,” when the cashier stopped me and said, “She said Merry Christmas!”
I’m usually on the giving end, I was humbled but that cashier reminded me I had to allow this lady to do this after all it was her blessing as well as mine! As I walked away God reminded me of the many times He had used me and now He wanted me to receive. And for all of you who know me well…yes I cried!
I learned that Wednesday evening hands and hearts that are wide open to give have to be wide open to receive as well.
From my heart to yours,
Blessings,
DaNetta Fernandez
She said Merry Christmas – priceless. Oh how He loves us.
That was so sweet! God is good.
I Love this!