more than grateful

When we're out and about meeting people and making casual acquaintances, folks will often notice we don't sound Texan and ask, "Where ya'll from?"

The truth is- sometimes we just don't feel like telling the story. We might give some version of a truthful answer that will close down the conversation quickly. "Minnesota" is a true answer that satisfies curiosity just fine.

A couple weeks ago I got a haircut and the gal cutting my hair asked, "How long have you lived in Waco?" I actually took a deep breath as I prepared to answer truthfully.

She went on to ask all of the natural questions about the earthquake and Haiti and what was it like? I answered all of her questions to the best of my ability. She listened intently and asked more questions.

After a while she said, "I watched so much news coverage." "That earthquake changed me, I'll tell you that."

I said, "Oh really? How so?"

She replied, "Well I am just thankful nothing like that has ever happened here, you know? I just need to be grateful!"


(This is the space in this blog post that represents the awkward moment of silence between the hairdresser and I.)

I wish I could say this sentiment she shared was an isolated incident. It is not encouraging to hear that the major change in someone's life was that they were glad the bad thing happened elsewhere.

Because this:

Next Five Minutes from David Platt on Vimeo.

is the constant reality - with or without an earthquake - And the thankfulness of blessed and protected people has not changed very much for the hurting, sick, hungry, lost, abused, and afraid.

Come Lord Jesus, come.

tara

Psalm 71:20-21 Though you have made them/me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore their/my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring them/me up. You will increase their/my honor and comfort them/me once again.