Two Stories

Richview’s been slowly changing. Something’s happening at the grassroots level that nobody could engineer. Last night, I met with some of those God has been using to change the face of our church from a caucasian one to a more intercultural one – a very exciting change. Two stories I heard: A new Canadian was walking home, trying to carry 17 shopping bags full of groceries. A car slowed, and from the passenger seat, a woman called out and offered a ride. No, thanks – with a smile. But then the woman got out of the car, and waved the driver on, and came and offered to carry some of the shopping bags home. Few words were spoken. When they arrived at their destination, the woman thanked her helper and asked, in broken English, “Why were you so kind?” The reply came in one word: “Jesus.” The new Canadian’s eyes began to brim with tears. The woman who stopped to carry a stranger’s shopping bags home for no other reason than Christ said later, “I’ve never felt like more of a Christian.” A second story, this one taking place at Richview: Another new Canadian arrived at Conversational English class, obviously upset. She had been involved in a minor traffic accident that day. The other driver, a man, spoke harshly, and told her to pay him $800 or else he would call the police. The police, in her mind, could kick her out of Canada. Her new life was beginning to unravel. She had $800 cash in an envelope, and was about to leave to meet the man alone, since her husband was still at work. The teacher told her to hang on for a few minutes. After the class was settled, she took her to another room to calm her down and advise her against paying the man. A new member of the class came forward and said she could help. “I work for an insurance company,” she said. She stayed and led her through all the necessary steps. Yes, this is what insurance is for. No, you shouldn’t go see the man alone at night, especially with all that money. Yes, keep the money yourself. No, the police won’t kick you out. The new Canadian left relieved. The new class member, the insurance worker, was never seen at Richview before or after that night. She had come at precisely the right time. I’ve got a Conversational English teacher who’s convinced that she met an angel that night.