Meeting Jesus

Last week we began the journey into the Lenten season. Over the past few days I have been thinking about the life of Jesus and what it means for me follow. In the midst of my contemplative reflection a friend came to visit.

We traveled St. Louis for two and a half days exploring different parts of the city. At one of our vacation locations, we met Tom and Julie. They shared their food (extra-ordinary potato chips). Then Tom shared some wisdom with us. He reminded us that life is short and it is best to really nurture those specials relationship in your life. He said there will be only a hand full of people who will be with you throughout your life, so treasure those relationships and tend to them. He proceeded to instruct us to cherish mother, father God. Julie tried to encourage her husband to be quiet, but eventually shared her wisdom too. She shared about nurturing a relationship with an old college roommate. They had remained friends for over thirty years. It was a profound moment for both my friend and I. As we left, we both felt like we had met Jesus.

I suspect that's the thing about meeting Jesus. In the sharing of food and conversation, Jesus shows up in unexpected places and around unexpected tables. May our hearts always be open to warmth that we might find from a stranger (especially those who possess an abundance of wisdom and yummy potato chips).