All Walks of Life

As I walk into the World Impact Thrift Store for each of my shifts during the week, there is excitement in my heart as I wonder what that day at the store is going to be like. In the midst of putting newly tagged merchandise on the shelves or running the cash register, I meet people from all walks of life. Some may seem to be there to find the next great bargain, but each person has a story…and sometimes they need someone who cares enough to listen.

Occasionally I will meet a lady who has been living in one of the women’s shelters in town. We have had the opportunity to bless many women who are starting to rebuild their lives after difficult circumstances. They receive vouchers for our thrift store that allow them to come and pick out clothing and household goods for free. One of the couples who volunteers with us recently had the opportunity to pray with one of these women whose heart was deeply hurting.

I have also met Marcus, a homeless man who – after years of not saying a word – has started to feel safe enough to talk with some of the staff. He comes to the back door of the store nearly every morning and gets a warm greeting and bag of fresh popcorn from David, the store manager. And David also blesses him by letting him pick out a new set of clothes every week.

The first time I met Tricia, she asked about the prayer room at the back of the store. She told me she had written a suicide note a couple of days before and would like to pray together. She shared some of her story, poured out many things that have left her alone and feeling condemned. I shared the story from John 4 of the lady at the well who met Jesus. He knew her whole past and revealed Himself to her ­ ­– the Messiah, the One who could give her living water! Tricia left with hope and has come back to the store, knowing it’s a place she can be real and hear truth of Jesus.

Sometimes I’m at the thrift store to listen and pray… and then sometimes I find out I’m the one who needs someone to pray for me. I am so blessed the by the encouragement the Lord brings to my heart at the most unexpected times in unexpected ways.