Serve where you are...

1 Peter 4:10. Every believer has received grace gifts, so use them to serve one another as faithful stewards of the many-colored tapestry of God's grace

It's a been a while since I've posted anything. My intention was to consistently post but I have failed. Such is life. I thought I would take the opportunity to share something real quick. Some of you may find it interesting and some of you may say...whatever. In any case....here's the story.

About 3 months ago I was laid off. I started as a Divinity student at Campbell University and for the MOST part have loved it. Church History has been a bit of a challenge and while I love the class I continue to struggle with all the content. Prayers for a greater memory...appreciated.

To be completely honest...it was a bit humbling to go from Software Sales to pushin' subs but we're called to work and God blesses our commitment to work. We're not called to be lazy...we're called to serve.

Anyway - I worked in software sales for 25 years. I've worked with companies such as Oracle, Microsoft, BMC, etc. I had a great career. Sales is such a wonderful career. It's challenging and very rewarding. I don't think I can actually express how great it feels to close a deal that you and your team have worked on for months. It's rewarding to know you've solved a problem, you've built trust and and created a new relationship. It's a rush and helps the college fund for sure.

Since, I've been laid off...I've been working part-time running a Sub Shop. I honestly don't what I have gotten more reward from personally. Financially, sales for sure...but personally...the SUB SHOP. I'm physically exhausted at the end of the day...but the interactions I have had have been amazing.

To share a few stories...last week I had a Mother and her Autistic son come in. It was clear the Mother wanted him to talk. So, I took time to show him the meats and condiments. It was nothing superior other than saying...."this is Roast Beef. See the texture". "This is Turkey. See the texture". "This is American Cheese. See the texture"....after about 5 minutes this little boy that hadn't said a word in MONTHS looked at me and said "Roast Beef". Now I know sounds small but what a blessing. The Mother pulled me aside in tears and said "He hasn't spoken in months and for some reason he decided to speak to you today. Thank you for being patient and taking time with him". Me - I said..."it was a greater blessing to me".

Second story...2 Hispanic guys came through today and spoke little English. I speak very little Spanish. So, we were equally challenged. As their order was being taken it was clear the young lady taking the order was getting frustrated. I walked over and used this phrase over and over and over....until we could get the order. "Como se Dice"...(holding a bag of CHIPS)..How do you say Chips (while holding chips)...."Como se Dice"...(pointing at Turkey).."Como se Dice"...Salami.....etc. It was trial by Error. Long story short....Figured out what they wanted and they were pleased...and FED.

God calls us to serve where we are daily. I have to say the blessing of feeling that I made someone's day better is AMAZING! It's the small moments sometimes that help me remember that I am God's child and that I have many brothers and sisters around me. Be kind...love your neighbor and remember God has called us to use our gifts....and I feel Grace is among one that we all have as his child.

In Christ,

Warren