Turning lemons into lemonade

The latest study within the men’s group at church comes from Philip Yancey’s “What’s So Amazing About Grace?”. Jeremy was sharing with me about a woman’s story told in this book. She and her fiance put down a large deposit for their wedding reception. As the wedding draws closer, the groom gets cold feet and ends the engagement. When she seeks to get back her deposit, the venue tells her the best she can get is a small fraction of what she has already paid. She chooses to put down the second half of the deposit and invite all of the poor of Boston and have a glorious feast/party. Boneless chicken was served to honor the groom and waiters served to elderly, bag ladies, and addicts. Champagne, chocolate cake, and dancing were enjoyed by all who came. What a sight that must have been!
The point is, she turned her sorrow and pain into blessing others. I thought about it and thought about it. I could look at a nursery each and every day for a child that is not coming or I could bless others with a nursery with no cost to them. Our church has done “Free” garage sales before and I thought that is just what I should do. Tuesday, I had a friend tell me of a young lady who needed a crib. I was thrilled that God was already sending me those who needed blessed. She was overjoyed at the sight of it and I sent her home with several other things. Once she left, it sunk in that Levi’s crib was gone and I wept. The rest of the nusery left in a hurry at the Free garage sale. Like ripping off a bandade, I needed to see it go fast.

It is an interesting social experiment to give away a lawn full of items for free. We had some embrace it, some thought we were crazy, some gave us money anyway, some felt like they were stealing and took as quick as they could, some couldn’t stop or take anything unless we were not watching. I walked up to each one and almost had to fill up bags for them and say, “Please, take.” I was facinating to me how much we view a free gift. A hint of scepticism, a sense of entitlement, a belief of unworthiness, snide remarks at the thought, or acceptance with open arms. Little did any of the people I met today realize, the deep pains I have were being relieved by each one who willingly took my free gifts. Overall, it was a good day for all of us……. including Mr. Jinx.