I was waiting in line to check out at a store the other day and noticed the mom in front of me with two toddlers in a cart and a young elementary school child standing next to her. I remember those days of shopping with young kids. I could feel her frustration as one of the toddlers attempted to throw items out of the cart as she tried to pay. I paid for my things and headed out a few minutes after her. She hadn’t gotten far, as she was trying to show her older child how to carry the big plastic pool they purchased and the toddler, once again, threw items out of the cart in the middle of the exit doors. I offered to help her carry the pool since the wind was blowing outside, while also reassuring her that I am a mom and have been there. She declined my help even as the wind almost took the pool out of her child’s hands.
As I walked to my car, my mind immediately went to a place of frustration. I thought her refusal was coming from a place of pride. I could have made her situation so much less stressful if she had just let me help. It wasn’t until I got to my car that a different perspective hit me. She was being the protector of her precious children. She wasn’t going to allow a stranger to follow her to her car in their vulnerable state. Bam! How did I not realize this? Whatever the reason, giving grace should have been my answer.
My assumption was unfair because it made my desire to be helpful more important than her comfort and safety.
This parking lot moment was a gentle reminder to suspend judgment, and practice unconditional grace. Everyone we meet may be fighting an unseen battle, or in my case, a “seen” battle that doesn’t deserve judgment. We can’t assume we know the motives behind anyone’s choices or actions. Jesus freely gives grace to us, and we should strive to do the same for others.
Have you been in a situation lately where grace wasn’t your first response? Have you prejudged a situation or person? This time of year seems especially stressful with the flurry of end of school year activities, transitions to summer, or new stages in life. Our fuses are short.
I pray that we continue to offer a helping hand, spread empathy and offer healthy doses of grace. Sometimes there are times when we do need to say, “Yes, I need help”, and I pray we can discern these moments. I pray the Momma in the parking lot has found some respite and will soon spend hours of laughter and fun this summer with her kiddos in their little, plastic pool.
Finding comfort in God’s unconditional grace and love along with you,
Angie Seiller, Director of Faith Formation