A random stop in a small town surprised us with a Jesus appointment for conversation and prayer. As Minnesotans traveling to our grandchildren’s winter concert, my husband and I allowed extra time for the three-hour drive. Arriving early, we chose a local establishment to spend time before the high school music event. Not sure if the place was open on weekday afternoons, we hesitantly stepped into the dining area. After a warm welcome by the manager, we picked choice seats among the high-top tables. Once he brought us water glasses and menus, we were waited on by a friendly server. I immediately noticed her eyes—kind but sad.

The only customers there, we had the luxury of the server’s undivided attention and conversation. After some small talk, she apologetically asked if she could ask a personal question. We agreed, and she asked us how long we had been married. As an older couple on their second marriage, our answer to that question sometimes surprises people. Hearing our answer of thirteen years, our server continued with another apology and a few more questions.

This time she asked what we found important in our relationship and what we liked most about each other. Our answers were not eloquent or lengthy. Faith topped each of our priority lists for marriage. Her request to name an attribute we appreciated most about our spouse brought smiles and longer descriptions.

Once we engaged our server in the conversation, she shared that her name was L. Then she relayed details of serious events in her life: challenges of grief, trauma, divorce, and family dysfunction. Her transparency about so much pain saddened me, and I started silently praying.

After L walked back to the kitchen, my husband told me he felt God’s nudge to pray with her. When she returned to our table, L lingered longer as we spoke to her about Jesus. I spoke of Jesus’ death on the cross and the forgiveness He freely offers. I briefly mentioned my first husband’s sudden death and how God had comforted and helped me through all of that.

With a still-empty dining room, I asked if I could pray for her. My brief prayer asked Jesus to show L His love and draw her to Him for healing and forgiveness. She was teary-eyed, grateful, and hugged me afterward. By then, she had other customers to serve. Later when we paid our bill, we said a brief goodbye. I gave her another hug and promised to pray for her.

Now, my heart is committed to pray for L. I still pray to God for the things she shared with us: her emotions, pain, and family concerns. I pray that He gives L a thirst for Jesus and reveals Himself to her. May God use other Christians and His Word to bring His truth and knowledge to L.

Lord God, Thank you for our Jesus appointment with L. My heart aches for her and how much she needs you. Bring L to you, Lord. Fill in the gaps of what we said, so that she can fully understand who you are. Please meet L’s needs and show her how much you love her. In Jesus’ name. Amen.