A Powerful Message

We were standing in line......waiting.  Ahead of us was a father, mother, and son. Good old-fashioned hard-working souls, treating themselves to a hearty buffet lunch.  Right off the bat they welcomed us to the line by commenting on our warm weather.  They were chatters and chirpers, so listening and nodding passed the time  for us.

The three-some paid for their meals first and were following the waitress to the dining area to be seated.  The older gentleman made a point to turn back to us, and with a wave and big smile said, "Don't stumble."

Man alive, the shivers ran through me.  His words felt like we'd just been hit with cannon balls.

The concept of not wanting others to stumble can be found in Romans 14 and 1 Corinthians 8 of the Bible.  Paul tells the Romans, "Let us stop passing judgment on one another.  Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way......"

Is that what this was man was referring to?  Or, was it just another friendly way of saying, "See yah?"

Guess we'll never know.  What is significant, however, is that we were reminded of our responsibility to clear the way for others so they don't stumble and fall.  If my friend has a problem with drinking, I will respect him and not drink in his presence.  My actions could cause him to stumble.

For all who read this blog, I pray that you......don't stumble.