A Place of Need

This is a different type of story for me to write. However, it is one that I need to write. It is a story from my heart. A story about my faith, my prayers, the answers that always come in His time, and the precious people who have and continue to cross my path. It is a story that I feel is needed in this topsy-turvy world. It’s a story that might just move your heart and change the way you think about things. It is a story that can make a difference one person at a time.

In the morning, I have a little ritual. Since I am retired, I like to ease into my morning. First, I love to get my coffee, put a little sweetener and pour two mini, hazelnut creamers into the black liquid. Then, I like to get comfy on my couch, invite my senior tortoiseshell female cat, Ethel to jump up, give her a morning hug, kiss her forehead, and tell her that I love her before, I pick up my morning devotional.

I always read the little story of the day, then say my morning prayers.  I pray for everyone around the world; for all those who are sick with any and all types of illnesses starting with the letter, “A” straight through to the letter, ” Z.”  I ask God to pour out His compassion, mercy, grace, and forgiveness to all, and to bless each sick person with the strength, determination, faith and hope to wake up each morning with the knowledge that they are not alone on their journey.

I believe He hears and I think He heals in many ways: miracles, sending the right people into our lives at just the right time, the continued love of our family and friends, and the support from the medical field.  I like to think and say, I believe that He answers in one of three ways; Yes, Wait, I have something better planned for you.

Although I pray for the hearts of people to change, the homeless, children, and all family members that need answers to prayer, there is a request that I make each morning and each night; “Please put me in a place of need.”  From the first moment, I asked Him, He has answered my request. It never ceases to amaze me with the number of people He puts on my daily path. He sends me those who need comfort, those who need someone to listen to them, hug them, or cry with them. Sometimes it is someone who just needs a smile. I ask. He delivers.

I am far from perfect, however, my love for others and wanting to help all I meet is an action of my faith. A faith that continues to grow with each new day.

I have a challenge for you dear reader. When you pray, ask Him to put you in a place of need, then see what happens.  I can only imagine the beautiful changes that could occur if every believer just asked. It might be life-changing to see positive changes, love blossoming where there were strife, men, and women reaching out to help others, and children knowing and understanding that they are loved and they matter. I can only imagine and hope that kindness would abound.

Take the first step and do not fear, because He is patiently waiting to hear from each one of us. Try it, your heart will thank you and so will every person who crosses your path. “Ask, and you shall receive.”