Abraham cared about his nephew Lot, despite the contention between their servants and the fact that Lot was prone to making poor choices. Refusing to give up on the man, Abraham interceded for him and even bargained persistently for God to preserve the town where Lot had decided to live (Genesis 18:23-32).
Because God was “mindful of Abraham” (Genesis 19:29), he sent his angels to warn Lot of the judgment that was about to be visited upon Sodom for its sins. When Lot hesitated, they even took him and his family by the hand and pulled them away from imminent disaster. All this because Abraham had interceded for his nephew!
Did you ever think that, like Abraham, you may be the means by which God saves another person from danger—either physical or spiritual? It really is possible.
Who is God putting on your heart today? Is it a family member, a neighbor, a coworker, an e-mail correspondent, or a stranger with a long face who sat next to you on the bus? God wants every person on earth to turn from sin and be transformed by his love (2 Peter 3:9). You just have to make sure you’re up to the challenge.
Begin by praying simply and faithfully for that person to have an experience of God’s presence. Let the love God has for him fill your own heart, just in case you have any lingering judgments against that person. Then go ahead and ask God if he wants to use you further. Maybe he wants you to speak a word of concerned warning or to encourage a stirring in the right direction. Maybe you will feel prompted to introduce that person to another friend who can understand him or her better. Or maybe an opportunity will arise for you to take that person by the hand and accompany him or her to Mass or a prayer service. Or maybe you should just keep on praying.
Whatever you do, don’t give up! When it comes to intercession and evangelization, it’s always too soon to quit.
”Father, in mercy you have stretched out your hand to me. As I draw closer to you, share with me your concern for your other children. Show me the role you want me to play in their salvation. Embolden me to say ‘yes’ to you.”
Psalm 26:2-3,9-12; Matthew 8:23-27