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D-7831

Knowing how to witness to others is often a perplexing question for many of us. Our friend, Fran, is facing that issue. This on-going story of Fran and Jesus is told as though Jesus were with her all the day—she talks to him and he to her. Of course, Jesus is with us all the time, but sometimes we forget. Hopefully, these episodes of Fran and Jesus will help us remember to practice the presence of Jesus every day, everywhere.

Today Fran is hurrying home from work. It seems like I always have to stop at the store for something, Fran thinks. “You know, Lord, if I didn’t have to buy groceries, I’d be rich,” she muses. “But with a growing nine-year-old boy, he just seems to never get enough. I’m thankful you told us not to worry about what we eat or wear, because you know we have need of these things,” Fran says to Jesus. She is reassured by the promise that Jesus will never leave or forsake her, and has indeed promised to supply all her needs according to his riches in glory.

She pulls into the grocery parking lot and dashes into the store, practically running through the aisles, finding the things she needs. In the midst of her hurry, she hears a voice, “Hey, Fran!” She turns and sees her neighbor.

“Sue, hi. How are you? Goodness, I haven’t seen you in several weeks. Good to see you,” Fran says in a friendly way.

“Yeah, I’ve been thinking about calling and stopping in to talk but—well, I know how busy you are with the kids and everything,” Sue says.

“How about your job, Sue? Did you get that new job you were hoping for?” Fran asks.

“No, I decided not to even apply for it, Fran,” Sue answers. “I’m sure I didn’t have a chance, and besides. . . .” her voice trails off and Fran can tell something is wrong.

“What’s wrong, Sue? You look a little upset,” Fran encourages her to talk.

Sue looks around, uncomfortable talking in the middle of the store. “Well, Ed moved out a couple of weeks ago and. . .I’ve just been upset, I guess.”

“Oh, I see,” Fran replies. “I’m. . .well I’m. . . .” What can I say, Lord? Fran asks Jesus. I’m not sorry Ed moved out; they shouldn’t have been living together anyway.

Just show her some love, Fran, Jesus responds. You can show love for people even if you don’t approve of what they’re doing.

Fran continues with Sue, “I’m sure this has been very hurtful for you, Sue. I’m so sorry. I didn’t know.”

“Well, maybe I could talk with you sometime when you have time. I know how busy you are. . . .” Sue looks at Fran with hopeful eyes.

“Of course. We’ll get together soon, I promise,” Fran replies, and with that they each head for the check-out stand.

Was that the right response?