Real Fairytale

I found myself in a predicament today where my car ran out of fuel and broke down at an intersection in the suburbs. After thinking for a little bit I decided  not to call the RAA as it would be faster just to get some more fuel myself. So I ran across the road and asked someone for help but they were unable and pointed me up the road. On my way up an officer stopped me to find out what was happening and then called for the police to help with the build up of traffic before dropping me off a little further up the road to find some help. Quite kind of him. I asked a second, third, and fourth person for help however none were able. Finally I came to a workshop and explained my predicament yet again and an older man there said that he would take the time off to give me a hand.

In the brief time I had getting to know this character I was encouraged so much. What has happened to such hospitality and generosity? How many would be willing to drop what they are doing to help out another in this day and age where time means everything?

A larrikin who lightens the mood and makes you laugh. A godly man who's had his lot in life. A family man who speaks warmly and lovingly of his mother and mother-in-law. An individual with his own character and a different hat for each day of the week.. Monday, Tuesday, ..., Sunday, and Someday - in case he is not sure which day it is. A man who asks for nothing in return and offers to do more than that which is asked. In his own words he is the knight or prince in shining armour come to sweep the damsel in distress up onto his galloping horse.

I told him that it was my adventure for the day but I didn't mean the whole thing, I meant meeting him. It was a humble reminder of what it means to live out our lives for God. How such a small action on our behalf can make such a huge difference to another. While I was only with him for 15-20 minutes I will probably never forget the kindly gentleman who helped me out this morning, although he says he is no gentleman.. 'I'm too old to be a gentleman' ..I would beg to differ.

This I pray. That young people today would continue to turn to and learn from the older generation. That we may be able to live our lives for him in faithful service and proclamation. That we may always remember the small things do matter. That we may take the time out and give a helping hand when it's needed and take thanks and criticism humbly when it's given. That we may not be afraid to be ourselves or be above asking for help when we need it. That others may see God shining through us even from a brief encounter. And ultimately that Jesus is our prince in shining armour, always there to pick us up.