Ruining the world?

Today, I helped with a garage sale to raise funds for a mission trip to Brazil. At one point, we were talking with a man who asked us to lower a price. I, in a jovial way, said we couldn't go lower because we were raising money for a good cause. When we explained that the funds were for a mission trip, he dropped the item like a hot potato, stated that people like us were ruining the world, and sadly rushed off.

Needless to say, I was saddened and surprised by his response. And, I can't stop thinking about him. I wish I had been quicker on my feet, to ask why he felt that way. Maybe to apologize for the hurt he obviously felt toward Christians.

I am so convicted that I need to be loving my neighbor in obedience to the Lord. I know that not all will believe, but I want to be faithful and obedient. I want to understand someone like this man, to step into his hurt.

As fallen people, we do make a mess of our lives. But, I believe it's through Christ alone that we have the hope of beauty from ashes, of seeing what was ruined be made beautiful by his mercy and love.

Dear sir, you were prayed for this afternoon. I pray you might meet the merciful Restorer of all things.