The Christmas Season

I have found it hard this year to get into the spirit of Christmas. Probably because I am worrying about the baby and am trying to get everything on my list of 'to-dos' done before he comes. Not to mention my best friend Jane who is always at my side needing something. I haven't had alot of time to ponder or even think about the greatness of this holiday. Today though that all changed for me.

Jane and I were on our way home from her Doctor appointment and we decided to stop by the dollar store to pick up a few things. Like most trips to the dollar store we finally made it to the register with over twenty items in the cart that we just absolutly needed, instead of the three items we came to get. There was an older lady in front of us checking out and I couldn't help but over hear her and the cashiers conversation. The lady was paying with change because she didn't get paid until tomorrow. As she was counting she realized that she came up short, she could only put a dollar on her debit card because she only had about four dollars left in her account. She decided that she just needed to put one of her five items away and do without. Once I realized what was going on I looked in my wallet for some cash; when I realized that I didn't have any I decided to pay for the whole purchase. I looked at the cashier and said "I have this" as I gave her my card. The older lady didn't even realize what I was doing, she was busy looking for some more change. When she looked up and realized I had paid for her purchase she started crying and thanking me over and over again. I told her it was not a problem and that it was only five dollars. As she walked away I told her to "have a Merry Christmas," she was barely able to squeak out " Have a wonderful New Year." I realize that the $5.42 purchase may not have been alot to me, but it made the difference to this stranger. How grateful I am that I was able to feel the spirit and help someone else in need. I hope someday I can sit Jane down and tell of how this is a season of giving and service, not one of presents and greed. Just another reminder to me how I need to be a servant in the Lord's hand and do his will.