Helping Hand of a Stranger

Today was one of those days that made me stop and think, "am I doing enough for those around me?"

After being pummeled with over a foot of snow between last night and this morning, I finally bundled up and went outside to tackle clearing the driveway. I soon realized that after living in Florida for three years, we did not own a snow shovel or any shovel for that matter. So I got creative and grabbed a rake and a dust pan. I figured I could sweep away the top layer of snow, then bend down to shovel what was left with the dust pan. I must have looked ridiculous, but it had to be done. We don't know our neighbors yet, or else I would have asked to borrow something, anything that would make the work easier. In fact, one neighbor was out shoveling at the same time, but when he finished he put his shovel away and walked inside. I didn't expect any offer of help. I am young and strong enough to handle a little bit of snow. I am from Cleveland for goodness sake. But just as that same neighbor started backing out his big SUV over his clean driveway, an angel was sent my way.
Timothy drove into the neighborhood, down the street, made a u-turn and pulled up in front of my house. Immediately I knew what he was doing - hoping to make some money off of poor, weak little me - or so I thought. He got out of the car and asked if he could help. I told him I was fine, just wish I had better tools to do the work. As he pulled out his shovel from the car, I told him I had no cash on hand to give him (which is true; I never carry cash). He replied that he was only wanting to do God's work and be a blessing to others today. And so for the next fifteen minutes, Timothy and I chatted about the area, the snow, what line of work we were both in, all while he shoveled away. My mind raced to think of something I could give him for his troubles. But when he was all done, and all I could say was thank you, he shook my hand and asked that I just remember him in my prayers.
You see, Timothy is out of work right now. And yes, he probably was hoping some change would fill his pocket by the end of a long day of shoveling driveways. I don't know if he has a family to take care of or not, but he was determined to do something - anything - today to get out and make a difference. Make a difference for someone else. Make a difference for himself. He did pass on his business card, hoping that maybe we would someday need his services as a painter. But what struck me most about Timothy, was that he was not just waiting for an opportunity to find him. He knew there would be a need today, and he acted upon it.
Too often I sit and think about serving others without ever acting upon it. And other times I just think too late and miss the opportunity to help. Timothy was a good reminder to me that there are those in need all around us. Whether its as simple as a hug or literally giving someone else the shirt off one's own back, I can always extend a helping hand.

Today I stopped and thought "will I do more for those around me?" And then I prayed that God open my eyes to the endless opportunities.