A few months ago, I went to my favorite Quiznos and asked for the manager. "Lea" met me with a face that suggested she was expecting another complaint. Here's what I said, "I'm sure you are used to people complaining, but I want you to know that I appreciate what you do. I really like your salads and appreciate the great service I receive whenever I come in." We had a nice chat and I prayed for her.
In the subsequent months, we have developed a casual friendship. Because of the demands of her job, including having to work on Sundays, she could rarely get to church. I brought her some sermon CD's and kept updated on how to pray for her. On one visit, she shared about her concern for a nephew. Recent tests showed a suspicious mass in his back. So we prayed.
Last week, Tom and I went to Quiznos for lunch. Lea was working behind the counter. I gave her a hello, but this was the lunch rush, so I didn't think a conversation would be in order. I was surprised that Lea came to our table. She told me an amazing story. The doctors had scheduled an additional test for her nephew prior to scheduling surgery. Their tests showed nothing. They did it again with the same result. Whatever got their attention was totally gone. So Lea came to tell me that prayer works and that God is good. I couldn't agree more! We enjoyed a moment to thank God together for way more than just the food.
That's pretty sweet! Thanks for sharing, I've always found stories of answered prayers or ways that God is working in a more tangible/visible way are really encouraging.
Posted by: Alex Marshall | November 13, 2007 at 11:22 AM
What an amazing encounter! Thank you for taking the initiative to build a relationship with Lea, and thank you for following through and actually praying for her nephew. The intentionality of caring for people in the name of Jesus challenged me greatly.
Posted by: Rocky | November 13, 2007 at 04:32 PM
That's neat! The power of prayer never needs to be underestimated!
Posted by: Maddie | November 19, 2007 at 06:26 PM