Jars of Colour

Recently, I unfortunately had a bout of food poisoning and so had been partially bed-ridden for a day and was unable to attend uni until today (but had to force myself to comply and survive clinic placement for an afternoon yesterday). I had an hour to spare between work and class starting, so I decided to sit at one of my favourite spots on campus to have some lunch and quiet time. I wasn't thinking about much (besides hoping that my lunch will not give me any more indigestion) and was simply getting through a chapter of my book when two guys approached me asking if I had a moment. Usually, I tend to politely decline and shy away from these sorts of encounters but this time, it was an encounter which I am glad I accepted. And being something that was completely out of the ordinary for me to do and something I would like to remember, I thought I would document it and share a bit about it here.

Now, these two guys were from a Christian group on campus and were simply wanting to have a chat about..well, life really. And it just so happened that I was reading the book our church small group was going through and that was able to provide a catalyst for a conversation about our faith, church, motivations as well as where we were from, family and what we're studying etc. It was more of a one-sided conversation but if time had allowed, I would have hoped and asked if I could hear more of their stories. But from what they had shared to me, I was already very encouraged and glad that I did not decline their invitation for a conversation. One of the guys was gracious enough to pray for me at the end; I had never had a near stranger do this for me before and it was a completely refreshing and encouraging gesture that I was very thankful for.

This encounter may not have been significant if it happened to someone else or if it occured at another time in life. And it might not even had happened if I had not decided to sit on that patch of grass or if I were with some friends. But in view of recent prayers and struggles, it was an unexpected but timely encouragement that I really praise God for giving me. And it is sometimes these apparently minute and fleeting moments in life that provide that bit of energy that is needed to persevere.

Before they left, one of them said, "It was a blessing being able to chat with you."

Same to you, my friend. Same to you.