Second-Hand Spirit

 by Macy Johnson

“You need to persevere

so that when you have done the will of God,

you will receive what He has promised.”

(Hebrews 10:36 NIV)

 

My husband, Jeff, and I visited around our breakfast table when I noticed a new, silver Jeep winding down our driveway. I assumed it was a postal service worker on that Sunday afternoon, delivering Jeff’s Amazon order. “Go get your package,” I suggested.

 

Jeff stood in our driveway and chatted with our visitor for a long time. As he walked back into the house with a package he said, “It was a neighbor from across the lake. My order was delivered to his house by mistake.” It was the second time this neighbor had brought us a package left at his home.

 

People are channels of the Holy Spirit and allow others to experience His power and love second-hand. Sometimes He comes to us directly, and other times he comes through other channels. This time the Holy Spirit came to us through a kind and thoughtful soul. Our neighbor was not required to deliver the package. He doused us that afternoon with grace.

 

Sometimes the Holy Spirit works through me for others, not for my benefit. But most of the time I enjoy the blessings as much as recipients do.

 

That same Sunday afternoon I was the pianist for a friend’s memorial service. God used me as a means of His love to provide comforting music for the grieving family. The pastor gave a stirring gospel message, and family members blessed us with memories of their loved one.

 

I see the faces of God all around me. They call me to persevere in the faith and encourage others onward and upward toward the promise of eternity with Him.

 

I will welcome the Holy Spirit today, first or second-hand. I hope you will, too!