when love means four envelopes

One of the most profound pieces of practical advice I have ever received: continually pray for opportunities to serve. When you are in your car driving to an event--take that drive time to pray for open eyes and a willing heart. When you are preparing for something--making food, applying makeup, walking to class, whatever--take that time of preparation and pray for an opportunity to demonstrate the love of Christ through service to those who will be around you.

I heard that advice when I was in seventh grade, and I have inconsistently practiced it ever since. I continue to be astonished by the wildly varying answers that God gives. Last week, someone needed help brushing the snow off their car. Last weekend my roommate needed a listening ear to accompany her on a stress-relieving walk throughout town. Yesterday a friend needed some neosporin. Last night I answered a knock on my door to find an enthused baker in need of a muffin tin. This afternoon I talked a friend through a romantic quandary. This evening I received a bizarre text, asking if I had four business-size envelopes. I delivered them with a smile. Tonight I sat down to hot drinks with someone who had just nervously agreed to a first date. I sagely presented the possibility of escape through the restaurant's bathroom window.

The moral of all these little stories? Moral #1: Be an RA. Lots of people will ask you for lots of things. Moral #2: Let God take you on an adventure of service--pray daily for chances to help those around you at their felt need.