Can I Ask You A Question?

I recently remembered a time towards the end of last year, when my daughter and I were leaving the hospital after visiting my mom. As we were walking out, there was a woman sitting on the bench. When we walked by she said, “Excuse me. Can I ask you a question?” We said, “Yes.” She said, “Why is it that those addicted to crack (she didn’t put it quite so nicely) are the only ones who want to help you?” She continued on by expressing that the “good people” never want to help you but the crack addicts will invite you into their world and help you anyway they can, even offering you more crack.

Seeing and hearing her frustration that night, I thought of how often her statement may have been true, even in my own life. I wondered how many opportunities I may have passed up to do good and help someone in need.

Photo by: Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz

One of my favorite stories in the Bible, is the story of Jesus and the woman at the well, found in John chapter 4. Jesus was willing to go against the societal norms and speak to someone He should not have spoken to. By doing so, He changed her life. Although Jesus already knew her story, He was still willing to listen to the woman. I love the example that Jesus set for us.

It is quite easy to come up with conclusions about a person, but until we hear someone’s story, we don’t know the truth of their journey. Taking time to listen to someone, is not always encouraged nowadays, especially if the person doesn’t meet our standard of normal. But operating in the Spirit of Love, and challenging the “norm,” will open the door for meaningful conversations; conversations that can bring about positive changes that make a difference in the lives of people.

May we be a beacon of hope to those in need; freely giving all that God has called us to give.

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Author: Dawn

The love of Jesus will never fail you. Thank you for visiting my blog.

31 thoughts on “Can I Ask You A Question?”

  2. What the question the woman ask is true, with my daughter who was in the hospital for a totally of fifth days when someone is addict to either drugs or alcoholic at times there are nurses and doctors who treated them better than someone who is chronically ill. The staff runs when these people needs pain medication and when I watch my own daughter crying in pain for hours they take there time coming in to help her. I have seen a doctor yelling at my daughter when one of her doctors admitted her into the hospital and she had a blood infection at the time. I am find to help them however they made their choice and the reason I say this is because my brother was an alcoholic and so is my soon to be ex-husband choose to drink and my daughter never had a choice in being sick.

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  5. I can understand where this lady was coming from. When I was in college I had a waitressing job at Denny’s. They were open at all hours, and over time I had various shifts. Sadly, those who came in after church were rude customers. And those who came in late at night and had too much to drink were so nice. Thank you for this reminder that we can be beacons of hope and light in this dark world.

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    1. Wow! That is so unfortunate. People see this rudeness and then want nothing to do with Christianity. Thankfully there are many who are willing to be beacons and share the light of Jesus. You’re welcome, Bridget!

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  6. Great post Dawn. The simple act of genuinely listening to someone and asking them questions can open up the opportunity that they will ask us a question…and then we can give an answer for the hope we have.

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  7. Indeed, often we do not want to take the time to really listen to others, our worldly concerns beckon. However, years ago, I was taught one of the best ways to help others is to take time and listen, love, and pray. A great reminder, Dawn! Blessings! 💖🌷🌺

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  8. This is sad but true. Sometimes we passed judgment on people because of how they appear. The Bible says we should not withhold from doing good when it is within the power of our hands to do so. This is a timely reminder. Thank you

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  9. I just love this, Dawn. I feel more and more convicted about being hesitant for one reason or another to reach out to others. I know I need to stop and really think about the way Jesus lived, and then do that in my life. Your words expressed my thoughts so well. Thank you!

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  10. You’ve touched upon the importance of two-way communication here, Dawn. It’s all to easy to think we’re communicating with someone, but are they truly connecting? Are they really being heard? The woman you encountered on the bench seems to be someone who remains unheard by pious people who should know better. Jesus always had time for those who truly needed Him. Can we, in God’s name, say the same?
    Excellent post, sister! His best to you and yours.

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    1. You’re welcome David! And thank you for sharing this insight. Communication is one thing but connecting is another. That is something I am learning about in relationships. May we live like Jesus. His best to you as well.

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  11. You’re right, Dawn, we have to remember that “divine appointments” can occur anyplace, anytime–AND people are watching and listening. We need to be strong advertisements for God! Years ago we used to sing an old hymn, “Make Me a Blessing.” The chorus included the lines, “Out of my life may Jesus shine” and “Make me a blessing to someone today.” It’s a good song to sing in the car, in preparation for interacting with others, wherever we might be headed!

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