It’s sure hard to believe, that a crowd of 5,000 were fed with 5 loaves of bread and two fish but I believe it because I saw it happen at Rosemarie’s home.
Last week, she invited me for dinner. Her small kitchen table would not be spread with fine linen and silver. There’d be no flowers and especially no candlelight. In fact, there was no food prepared for our dinner. Rosemarie simply rummaged through her purse and held out a flyer of coupons from Burger King.
“Two can dine for $18.99” she said in her ever cheery voice, “but you can get whatever you want. l’d like the Angus burger with cheese and bacon and everything on it except those spicy pepper rings. You’ll just have to go get it.”
Rosemarie gets it. Not the burgers but what's at the heart of hospitality.
Did I mention that she was hit with MS (multiple sclerosis) which among other things, robbed her of her eyesight? Or that her husband, Bill, had been her principal caregiver until he got Alzheimer’s and the roles were reversed? Now Bill, too, is gone.
“What’s in your hand?” Jesus asks a young boy holding his lunch pail.
5 loaves and 2 fish.
“What’s in your hand?”
In Rosemarie’s, it’s a flyer with Burger King coupons.
I came back a few minutes later, one hand holding a bag with burgers and fries, the other balancing the tray with the drinks and paper straws.
For the next little while, we shared our fries, we shared our lives and by the end of the meal, I felt seen by eyes that couldn’t see and like the 5000, filled to overflowing- body and soul.
So, dear readers- what’s in your hand?
By the way…
I’ve been fortunate to know people who excel at making space for others
the car mechanic who gives single moms a discount on their repairs
the seamstress who sews prom dresses for disadvantaged girls
the accountant who processes seniors’ tax returns
the retiree who gives rides to doctor’s appointments
the prosperous couple who give generously to fund a youth camp
the senior who creates encouraging greeting cards
I’d love to hear of a time when someone made space for you. How did you feel?
Your friend is wise..she have of herself.
Long after she's gone there will be food.
She's also so fortunate in that she knows, giving of herself was more than enough.
Not all of us feel that WE are ENOUGH