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PROGRAM D-8414
We are once again following the story of Fran and Jesus on the Job. We all understand that because we are Christ-followers, Jesus is with us each day through the presence of his Holy Spirit. But how often do we forget this? These Fran stories are intended to help us see how we can practice the presence of Jesus in our daily lives.
Fran has just stood up to her boss on an ethical issue and, as a result, has been told that her prize prospect would be taken away from her. With her head hung down, she goes back to her desk, and she talks to Jesus.
“Lord, that’s not fair. I deserve that business, and I could get it honestly. Now, my job is probably up for grabs.” Fran starts feeling sorry for yourself.
Jesus responds to her very quietly, “I understand how it feels to be mistreated; I’ve been there.”
Once again she remembers the love and understanding he has for her. She recalls the verse in Hebrews that says he is touched with the feelings of our weaknesses, remembers Calvary, and feels ashamed of her pity party.
“I’m sorry, Lord. . .” but as she starts to apologize, he interrupts.
“Please, Fran, I understand. It hurts to be treated wrongly. But you did the right thing, and I will honor you for that. Can you trust me?”
Fran chuckles. “Do I have any other options?”
“Sure, you can capitulate and change the numbers. That would be easy to do.”
“But it would break your heart, wouldn’t it Lord? No, I’ll do it your way. I trust you.”
As she sits at her desk, Tom, a new salesperson, comes into her office. “Uh, Fran, uh. . .” He stammers around a bit. “Marilyn told me you’re giving up the Drexel account and that I should get the background from you so I can make the presentation to them tomorrow.”
The words hit Fran like a two-ton truck. She can’t believe Marilyn is doing this; she’s worked so hard for this business, and now she has to turn it over to Tom, of all people. He’s brand new and thinks he’s knows everything. Again, anger starts to rage inside her.
But as she turns to get the file from her credenza, she remembers that Jesus is right there. “Lord,” she whispers, “I can’t stand this guy. This is so unfair.”
Jesus reminds her, “Fran, you did the right thing. I will vindicate you. Now, don’t take it out on Tom. Remember, I’m here to help you.”
Fran is amazed at the instant calm and peace she feels. She’s able to explain the account to Tom and hand him the file without any anger or bitterness.
As Tom walks out, she says, “You know, Lord, I can’t believe I didn’t dump on Tom. I wanted to, you know. But somehow. . .” She smiles. “It was because you were here, Lord.”
“Well, Fran, you’re learning to practice my presence all day long. If you had done what your old nature wanted to do, you would have lashed out at Tom and Marilyn. But because I’m here to give you strength, you behaved just beautifully—just the way I would have done it.”
Practicing the presence of Jesus. That’s what we’re talking about in this imagined story. What a difference it makes.