“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need you will abound in every good work.” II Corinthians 9:8
It was only a little bottle in my purse. I walked into church and the pastor’s wife said, “Mmm, you smell so good! What are you wearing?” I laughed for a moment. The cause of my laughter was that nearly EVERY time I wore this particular scent, someone would say something to me nearly identical to what she had just said.
We talked a moment and then it dawned on me. I had a small bottle of the perfume in my purse. “Just a minute,” I said and quickly pulled it out. “Here, why don’t you take this and try it. It’s only a little bottle, and it isn’t even full, but maybe it would work for you.”
We smiled and gave each other a quick hug . . . and then moved on into the morning events.
It was nearly a year before I saw her again. I had completely forgotten all about that friendly exchange.
Our family rolled into their church parking lot once again and as I was getting ready that Sunday morning, I was praying. “Lord, you know that I’d like to get Mark some cologne – and I’m almost completely out of perfume . . .” and instead of leaving it with Him, my mind began to think of a way to make this happen.
(Ouch, but I have to admit it.)
“I wonder if the outlet near our home would let me purchase over the phone and send it to us . . .” But there wasn’t much time to dwell on the situation – it was nearly time for church.
As I walked in the door, I saw the pastor’s wife. This was their last Sunday before they retired, and while I knew they were blessed with the new pastor that was coming and his family, I also knew the change would be take some getting used to.
We talked a few moments, and then, she pulled out a gift bag. “Open it,” she said excitedly. Obediently I opened the bag, and to my surprise found a bottle of my favorite perfume – much larger than the one I had given her. “Remember?” she asked. It took a moment, but it came flooding back.
I stood there completely overwhelmed at our God. In His abundant way He had one more time met a need. A small, personal need. Yet, He thought it important.
And I could sing along with Annie Johnson Flint – “. . . He giveth and giveth, and giveth again.”
Lovingly, Janene