When was the last time you stepped out of your comfort zone?
We’ve been seeing a different side of America since our move out of the suburbs.
I’ve taken public transport in many places around the world.
But in the US–and I hate to admit this–it struck a lot of fear within me.
Maybe because it was such an unknown.
The stories I heard were often not comforting.
When taking the bus or train is like a journey with Jesus
I once asked a gentleman if he had travel tips for me.
He said, “Travel light. Don’t be flashy.”
He then glanced around and then looked at me to see if I understood.
I did.
The homeless in the city are a common sight.
After he shared his tip – he rode off with his durag and a swag – his fist pumped high up in the air as he signaled goodbye.
Courage comes from trusting
I’m better at riding public buses and trains now.
In fact, I no longer freak out when I have to do bus transfers or when it arrives late, past its scheduled time.
In fact I have started to relax more.
The other night I struck up a conversation with a regular commuter on a bus I was taking.
She was friendly and I was curious.
So we chatted.
I learned a lot from her about what it was like to take the bus to work every day.
I wasn’t sure what to offer in exchange.
So I mentioned about heading to a free night at the museum.
She was so interested and excited that she pulled out her tablet with cracked glass to google for more information.
“You’re right. There it is. It really is free Thursdays,” she said. “My nephew’s visiting. Now I know where to take him when he comes.”
The gift of one stranger to another
Where would your journey with Jesus take you?
I wish you many wonderful and meaningful encounters.
Find “Journey with Jesus” (4 part series) by Ron Oltmanns on Amazon by clicking link here.
