We have been a one vehicle family for the past three years and it has worked out well because until this past March, my wife and I have worked at the same location.  But now we are needing to go here or there at the same time and it is causing us to use alternative forms of commuting. I have been given the opportunity to ride the city bus a few times lately, at least until it is warm enough for me to ride my bike.  But these bus rides have been more to me than just a means of transportation. They have turned into precious conversations and a look into a part of my city that I need to connect with more.

One of my recent rides had given me three amazing conversations. The first was due to the fact that I was short $.15 and a wonderful lady at my bus stop gave me the money to save myself the embarrassment of asking the driver for it. This simple act of kindness led to an amazing conversation about her son and daughter that she loves so much. Her son was recently laid off and she was worried about him finding a new job. “He is a good boy and doesn’t do any drugs…well except marijuana, but everyone does that a little” is what she told me. Her dedication to her grown children and her story connected with me that afternoon and I hope to run into her again soon to further our friendship. (more…)

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of joining a good friend of mine and a group of  20+ retired adults in their bible study at their apartment complex, Saint Therese at Oxbow Lake.  As we entered their small chapel, I saw a look of anticipation on the faces of the members of this group.  But not long after arriving did I find out why as I watched my friend great each of these precious people with a loving embrace and kind words.  He made sure that not one person missed a hug.

I witnessed their faces light up as he dramatically shared about Jesus with them, later explaining to me that he had to be dramatic or some would fall asleep.  There was a lady sitting next to my friend who was used as an example and received many hugs while my friend shared about Jesus.  To watch her face and hear her giggles, and those of her husband that sat next to her, was a gift.  Each time she was embraced she seemed to hold on so tight as to never want to be let go. (more…)