Sometimes I wonder what in the world I’m doing.
Tuesday evening I was invited to speak to a spinal cord injury support group. I wasn’t quite sure until I arrived exactly how the invitation originated.
I was absolutely not prepared for the explanation.
“A counselor gave me a copy of your book after my husband was paralyzed. Both of us credit your writing with getting us through this experience. It’s such an honor to meet the person who wrote those words.”
I wanted to look over my shoulder. She had to be talking to someone behind me.
When you write a book like RELENTLESS GRACE it’s kind of easy to say I hope this book helps people. But when you suddenly realize that someone in a crisis might be depending on your words, there’s an unexpected sense of real-life responsibility.
I have to confess—though I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the group, I couldn’t help feeling like a bit of an imposter. Her introduction described someone else. I’m just an old guy telling his messed-up story.
It’s an interesting lesson in humility. Becky reminds me of her little personal prayer each time I speak to a group: God, please speak to these people through Rich’s story.
I can’t guide anyone through adversity or crisis. My words, on their own, don’t have that kind of power. None of us should try to carry that burden.
Becky’s right, as usual. Only God’s Spirit can touch a heart burdened by pain, loss, or grief. But that doesn’t mean you and I get a pass.
I think we’re supposed to change the world by doing what we can, where we are, with what we have. Changing the world is important stuff. It’s not to be taken lightly.
But let’s not get the idea we can do it on our own.
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