Publix: Where Shopping is a Pleasure (And a Spiritually-Enriching Experience!)

Chaos happened.

A weary woman pushed a grocery cart full of wild little ones up behind me at the Publix checkout line the other day. One child climbed out and began to hurl a Milky Way at his wailing sibling. (He quickly got bored with the game and instantaneously found satisfaction in turning the bag rack into a jungle gym.) The distracted woman began to attempt unloading her cart while simultaneously balancing a coughing little girl on her hip.

Interrupting the madness, I butted in, asking if I could help. Before I could blink twice, the little girl was in my arms. Grime and dirt covered her tear-streaked face and ran down her dress. The smell of neglect lingered, and her eyes reflected a sickness that needed both antibiotics and love.

I cuddled my new little friend close, longing to take her home with me and give her a warm bath and a clean dress.

The smell of neglect lingered, and her eyes reflected a sickness that needed both antibiotics and love.

Meanwhile, the cashier dazedly watched the disturbingly entertaining scene. Oh, and when I reached for the sick baby, I thought her eyes were going to pop out of her head! I was amused by her speechless state of shock.

Eventually, the woman’s cart was unloaded, and, after mumbling a thank-you, she reached for her calmed child.

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I left with that baby girl’s face etched in my memory. Ellie was her name. And she opened my eyes to the beauty found in willingly diving into someone else’s chaos with an attitude absent of judgment or fear. Indescribable joy floods your soul when you intentionally venture into a stranger’s mess with genuine kindness.

Simply being the hands and feet of Jesus (no matter how unexpected the situation!) is priceless. The reward of the irreplaceable act of humble compassion puts all incentives and expected appreciation to shame.

“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:1-2

I am learning to…

Be a Christ-imitator. Radiate love. And Live a life of glorious sacrifice.

Baby Ellie sparked my heart with the awareness of the infinite value in owning this mindset as I thrive within the shelter of the limitless compassion found in my Jesus and strive to glorify Him always.

Today’s Challenge:

So, I challenge us. Let’s not conform to a culture driven by selfish ambitions and agendas, but may we be transformed into the likeness of our selfless Savior, consistently shining His love.

How can you intentionally find daily ways to be Jesus?

Replacing all expectations and agendas with a love that overflows and a compassion that is contagious.

Live ready to do and willing to serve. (You won’t regret it, I promise.)

Happy Christmas!