On our day off a few of us took a trip to Masaya. On our way home we were able to catch a huge yellow bus that runs as the 'public transportation'. They usually cram way too many people on these buses, but it's a cheap way to get around. This particular bus travels from Masaya to San Marcos to Diriamba and then eventually to Jinotepe. The bus was completely crowded, but I was able to get a seat at the very front of the bus.
At the next stop a young woman and her baby stepped on the bus with about 10 others, all the seats were taken, and there were about 30 people standing in the middle row. I asked her if she wanted to sit in my seat and she seemed so surprised, but relieved. I stood up and she sat down. I studied her for a minute. She seemed tired, worried, but I could tell that she loved her little boy and that she would always care for him. I didn't know where she was going or where she came from, but I knew she needed love. Her little boy who was half asleep put his hand on my leg at one point. I felt as though he was thanking me. All of the sudden I just wanted to give everything to them. I prayed for them over and over. I gave them my chicky's (cookies) that I had in my backpack. I wanted to give them so much more. I prayed more for them. After about 30 minutes they got off the bus, and before she stepped off with her boy, she looked at me and waved. I waved back and that was the last time I saw them.
I was so overwhelmed by this simple situation. I was so joyful and thankful that at the moment I was sitting in that seat on that particular bus to Jinotepe, she walked in and I was able to give her my seat.
I believe that as Christians it is so important to do the little things. Even if no words are shared, what people notice the most are actions. My new action? I want to give away food to the people that the Holy Spirit leads me to. My lunch, my snacks. I would rather give away my favorite snack to a person that has an empty stomach or a starving heart than for me to fill my overfed stomach with something I do not need.
I'm continually reminded of this scripture: "I want you to share your food with the hungry and to welcome poor wanderers to your homes. Give clothes to those who need them, and do not hide from relatives who need help. If you do these things, your salvation will come like the dawn. Yes, your healing will come quickly. Your godliness will lead you forward, and the glory of the Lord will protect you from behind. Then when you call, the Lord will answer. 'Yes, I am here,' he will quickly reply." Isaiah 58:7-9.
I encourage you that next time you fast, give away your food. It's incredible how God will fill your heart when you do a simple action as this.
