When someone offers you a meal, you take it

I remember in college my step dad asked if I needed any money. I told him I was good, no thanks. As I drove away it hit me...what was I thinking?!? The man just offered you money! Take it girl. I think I said no because none of us wants to appear needy, or weak, or like we can't support ourselves. But as I've grown with Christ, and learned about God as our helper in times of need, and also learned about my role as a helper, it has become much easier to accept help. We were created for community. We have a need for each other, so it's ok to let others help us when we need it. I also lend my help when I can give it. I think that's what led me to be a doula as well.

Another thought that may seem random will connect here shortly: this past year at our small church there have been 9 children born. NINE! And one more was born last week! And another is due in two weeks. I'm not making this up. Anyway, because of our difficult experience with Mary, Ian and I have a soft spot for new parents so we usually send diapers, meals, or ourselves to babysit and help however we can. Well we got a little behind and sent a meal to one of the families when their daughter was 3 months old. I found myself apologizing to the dad about it taking so long. He was grateful anyway, but I had another epiphany as I walked away: when you have multiple kids it is ALWAYS a good day to have someone else provide dinner!

All of this came together for me last Friday when a neighbor brought over a meal for us out of nowhere. At first I thought, 'why did she bring this meal?' And then I thought, 'who cares! It's one less meal I have to make and I am so grateful! If someone brings you a meal, you take it!' Her kindness and thoughtfulness was so timely and I am very grateful for it. We like to help others but we don't always like to be helped. But in order for others to help, there needs to be someone in need, someone who gets served. It's ok if that is sometimes me:)