A face in the crowd

Sometimes it’s hard to go to street level.

I am standing at my hotel window on the 20^th floor of a Manhattan hotel, having just driven into the city. Below me, I can see a small slice of a distant sidewalk.  The late afternoon light is intriguing, throwing angles and reflections on the rooftops and glass facades.  I wait for some time, camera in hand, watching for lone walkers to come into view.

This is easier than joining the jostling masses below.

 

I am tempted to stay in the room.  It takes a certain energy to engage people, even as superficially as walking in crowds on a New York sidewalk.  I feel this same energy draw when I go to church on Sunday, where I am still somewhat unknown.  Connecting to people in church feels akin to a salmon leaping over and over again into a waterfall.  It may eventually overcome.  But it’s a hard slog.

I head down to the street.  This blog is reminding me the truth that C.S. Lewis puts so succinctly: “We may ignore, but we can nowhere evade the presence of God. The world is crowded with Him. He walks everywhere incognito.”

Weaving in among the crowd, I begin to wonder who among the people passing is a follower of Christ.  I pray for them, for their witness in this city of cities.  I glance at faces, imagining the story behind them.  It’s a bit overwhelming, actually.

But then one face lights up my heart with joy.  Earlier today, I found that my niece and her husband are also in the city.  Having just finished a stint in Alaska, they are sightseeing before beginning new jobs in the South.  We meet outside my hotel – with an enthusiastic group hug – and head to dinner.

Listening to Abigail is a delight.  She is natural storyteller.  Expressive.   Our evening is over far too quickly.

But I return to my room touched by the kindness of God.  This “chance” reunion reminds me that He has purpose for me everywhere I go.  That He is already walking in the streets of the cities I will visit.  He has people for me to meet.

And as for the energy needed?  He has an unlimited supply.

Lord, forgive me for the times I stay sheltered in my comfort, unwilling to seek you in the people I meet.  Open my heart.  Overcome my reticence.  Thank you for already being everywhere we go, waiting to engage us, ready to introduce us to those we can bless.  Or be blessed by.  Don’t pass us incognito, but reveal to us your presence.