In fact, for roughly 30 minutes he remained on the ground outside of our local Chick-Fil-A while customers walked past him. We didn't choose to leave him on the ground. He chose it by his own stubbornness.
Chuck is a elderly regular who fell as he exited the restaurant. Several concerned customers offered him assistance, which he angrily rejected. "I'm a Marine!" he shouted. "I don't need anyone's help!" The sad truth was not only did he need help, but he was the only one who didn't realize it.
We aren't always good at admitting our helplessness. During a particularly lean period in seminary, the teachers of our young marrieds Sunday School class brought over groceries. Our teacher, Larry, pulled me aside and asked why I seemed bothered by the gift. I told him I was embarrassed to need such help.
"Have you asked God to provide for your family?" Larry asked. I responded that it was my most constant prayer. Larry looked me in the eye and gently said, "What do you think this is?"
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1
The truth is, we're all lying on the ground. Some of our predicaments are more visible than others, but each of us needs to admit we could use a little help. And not only will we find ourselves blessed, but we find our chance be a blessing to others. Don't think that Larry's gift and words haven't motivated me to look for my own opportunities to be the answer to someone's prayer.
Salvation is the most humbling act for humanity. It's the great admission that we aren't enough and we cannot save ourselves. When we stay stubborn, we stay down and the cross is God's proof that He hasn't demanded of us to do anything alone. And it could be that as you admit your need, you encourage others to drop their stubbornness and find the help they need to get up!
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