Last week I had one of the oddest experiences of my life. Not bad, just odd. I walked around Canada’s Wonderland ALONE. It wasn’t my plan, it’s just the way it worked out. I was helping with a Music field trip and once the performance was done and the kids were sent off on their way, all of the other parent volunteers and teachers had scattered. So I went into the park alone.
At first it was a bit unnerving, I was that guy… the single rider. I felt self-conscious and wondered what people thought of this middle aged man at Wonderland on a school day. I kept walking around, going on rides, browsing the shops, eating meals… doing what you do at a theme park when you’re alone. This isn’t the first time I’ve been alone in a large crowd. I’m an extroverted introvert and I’m pretty quiet in new situations. Maybe you can identify with me. Maybe you go to church or work or school and you’re surrounded by people, but you feel alone.
In Psalm 25 David says, “Turn to me and have mercy, for I am alone and in deep distress.” Psalm 25:16 (NLT)
David knew what it was like to be alone. Thousands of people spend their days lonely, though they are surrounded by people. They sit beside you on the bus, across from you in the break room, greet you with a smile at church, and wave hello from across the street as they work in their yard. I guess the real question is whether I notice or not. No one truly wants to be alone, and many don’t know what to do about it.
Increasingly throughout the day I began to pay attention to the others around me. People just like me, who might be feeling alone and who need Jesus. THIS SUMMER TAKE NOTICE. Watch for people sitting alone at church, watch for the uncomfortable body language of someone in a new situation, look and listen to what might be going on in the hearts of those around you – and take notice. Then be present…. bring comfort… and bring Jesus to others through you.