Real Hope: GratitudeSample

He Works For Good

I had just finished my shopping. I had stopped Your Story at the bakery to buy a fresh loaf of bread and a pastry to have later with a cup of tea. Out of the corner of my eye I could see the Mater Prize Home ticket seller. He was waiting impatiently for me to conclude my purchase. He knew I would walk past him, and he was hovering. I did my best to avoid eye contact, but I failed. He rubbed his proverbial hands together and cranked up his spiel.

Much as I would like to support caring for sick children, I wasn’t prepared to sign up for the regular donation the salesman was asking for on the proviso that I might win a million-dollar mansion. You see, he was selling me on winning the house. He wasn’t much interested in the photo of the sick child.

I thanked him as I walked away. Thank you, I said. I was confronted by the contrast between the materialism of the house and the sick baby. I prayed for the child as I put my groceries in the boot of the car.

There was hope because the child was receiving the best medical care. In that moment I focused on the hope that is in Christ. My joy welled up, and I gave thanks, even as I prayed. I realised that I could say thank you to God, because He is at work for good in and through all things. For that I am grateful.

Written by CHRIS PARFOOT