Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear. Isaiah 65:24 (NIV)
Today was the garage sale to raise money for youngest son’s trip to the Amazon. The last time I participated in a garage sale was in 1980. I decided then that it was too much work for just a little money, and I have not changed my mind. We had to be there at 6:00 AM and did not get home until 2:00 PM. There was a lot of leftover stuff and the group plans to do it again in January. It is tempting to be sick that day, but I think I will probably offer to help again. I am not a barterer, but did my best to support the team, and I certainly met some interesting folks. I also spent most of the day conversing with God.
Me: God, there are not nearly enough people here and a whole lot of junk on these tables. How on earth will we make any money on this venture?
God: I am still in control. Besides, you are not here just to sell. Keep your eyes open for the people I put in your path.
Me: Why do these people insist on bargaining when our prices are so low we might as well be giving this stuff away?
God: That woman just signed up to be a foster mom. She was able to get all her baby items here for a price she can afford. Isn’t it wonderful how you were able to help her?
Me: I cannot understand a word that this woman says. I can’t believe I just sold her a whole box of linens for $2.00. Did I really agree to do that or was she taking advantage of me?
God: She just arrived here from Haiti and is setting up her house. Tonight she will sleep between sheets, and when it gets cold, she will have a blanket to keep her warm.
Me: Look at all those little kids inspecting the used toys like they are on the toy aisle at Wal-Mart. Where are their parents anyway?
God: That could be all those children will have for Christmas. But, look, someone from the mission team is talking to them about their needs. You can help them more. Perhaps they will even come to church on Sunday.
Me: Could that woman have been any ruder to me? What is her problem?
God: I know how you feel. People shun me all the time. Try being kind to her despite her attitude. You might find out what makes her act that way.
Me: Someone ought to tell those children to quit banging on that piano.
God: That little girl has been talking to me about wanting a piano for quite a while. Isn’t it nice that the donor just gave it to her and that your husband will be kind enough to deliver it?
Me: Okay, God. I get it. We are here to do more than earn some money.
We raised $600.00. We made a lot more friends.
Oh wow, I really loved this post. Perhaps you should do a “Conversations with God” weekly post…you really are an awesome writer 😉
The last garage sale we had was two years ago and after suffering from heat exhaustion (throwing up and then passing out) I decided never again.
P.S. Really…think about that “Conversations with God” idea. 🙂