Just Pray for Us
Every once in a while you have the good fortune to meet someone who embodies the very spirit of Christmas giving.
Last week my husband, Mark, was driving by a tree lot and spotted some lovely silver cypress trees that were just what we needed to line the end of our driveway. There was no one in attendance so he called the number on the sign and talked to “Albert,” the owner.
Albert was off on another job and said there was no one to help him that day, but they chatted for quite awhile and arrived at a price for four of these trees. It was arranged that there would be someone there to help him load the trees the following morning.
It was a blustery morning, with temperatures in the 40’s and wind gusts to match, so Mark donned his coveralls and stocking cap, hooked up the trailer and off he went to fetch the trees. When he arrived at the lot, there was no one there.
Thinking he was just early he called Albert again, who explained that with the terrible wind he had told his worker to take the day off. He felt badly that he didn’t have help there for the second day, and Mark said he could really load the trees alone if he could bring the payment to him.
To which Albert replied, “You know, don’t worry about it. Go ahead and take the trees. Merry Christmas.”
Mark responded that really wasn’t necessary and he’d be happy to bring him a check, but Albert insisted;
“All I ask is that you pray for us and pray for the country.”
Forget the bill? I remain struck by the generosity of this gift, and moved by his request. Surely this is the true spirit of giving; one that brings us closer in faith and faithfulness.
I have not had the pleasure of meeting Albert yet, but I hope to soon. And I know that every time I pass those trees on my driveway I will think of his act of kindness….and pray.