Just a thought by coppi

“Can I give without wanting anything in return, love without putting any conditions on my love? Considering my immense need for human recognition and affection, I realize that it will be a lifelong struggle. But I am also convinced that each time I step over this need and act free of my concern for return, I can trust that my life can truly bear the fruits of God’s Spirit.” Henri Nouwen 

Oh yes, this is so true in my life.  I was talking to my friend regarding this very thing, and she too agreed with me.  She then told me of a time she was on a plane flying back home from Colorado.  She was sitting next to a Muslim of faith. She was reading a book “More Than A Carpenter” by Josh McDowell.  He became interested in the book she was reading and thus the conversation from Colorado to Tampa began. She told me from the position she had to turn her head to speak with him caused an incredible ache in her neck. She said when they arrived home and after her witnessing to him the entire time, she gave him the book by Josh McDowell.  Yes, she said, I have wondered what turn in his life did her conversation and book make in his life.  Last week I had an appointment with my Nephrologist who also is of the Muslim faith.  When he went over my results with me, he stopped and said “ what is your secret for staying so young and looking so good” – I was taken back for a minute but out of my mouth came “I am a God person”.  He said, “I like that but what do you mean”?  Well, I went into the “Why” and his response was once again “I like that”.  I have no idea why I said “I am a God person” – that certainly is never my response when I am asked that question.  I left his office wondering what was that all about.  I would like to know, but that is something I might never know, and as Henri so wisely says “I am also convinced that each time I step over this need and act free of my concern for return, I can trust that my life can truly bear the fruits of God’s Spirit”.  Throughout my life, (I do not push my belief on anyone) whenever God puts someone in my life that asks me about my faith, I tell them and leave whatever occurs in their life to the Holy Spirit. That does not say I wonder, because I do, but putting conditions on any thing – love, being one,  is truly not love!  

Just a thought by coppi