As they eat lunch, Joyce pours out her story of trying to make ends meet because her ex-husband is very negligent in paying child support and the day care center is threatening to refuse to take her son because Joyce is behind in her payments. As Joyce brushes away tears, Fran says to her, "Oh, Joyce, I truly understand how you feel. There's nothing more important than your son and his care while you work. How much money do you owe the day care center?"
"I'm one month behind—$400. And Fran, I just don't have any money," Joyce replies.
"What about your family?" Fran asks, "Can they help you?"
"Family? Are you kidding? My family..." her voice trails off. It's obviously too painful for her to even talk about.
Jesus whispers to Fran, "What about your church's emergency fund to help people?"
"What a good idea, Lord," Fran says and turns to Joyce. "Look, Joyce, I have a suggestion. Our church has a fund to help people who are in financial trouble. As a member, I can request help for you. Would it be okay if I submit a request that they help you pay what you owe the day care center?"
Joyce looks at Fran in bewilderment. "You'd do that for me? But why?"
"Why? Just because you need help, and I want to help you. I'd pay it myself if I could, but my funds are a little tight, too. Now, I can't guarantee they'll do it, but at least I can ask. Okay?"
"Yeah, okay..." Joyce puts her head in her hands and can no longer hold back the tears. She sobs quietly.
Jesus nudges Fran, and she reaches across the table and takes her hand. "You know, Joyce, I don't believe that anyone is in our lives by accident. And I'm sure it's not an accident that I decided to invite you to lunch today. I believe it's God's way of showing you He loves you and is going to take care of you."
Joyce looks up. "I'm not sure I even believe there is a God, Fran, but I appreciate your help. Sorry I'm so emotional; it's just that....well, I've been so worried about Toby. I was ready to run away, but where would I go? You've at least given me some hope."
Back at the office, Fran makes a call to the church and gets the ball rolling. She says to Jesus, "Lord, I can't believe how my feelings about Joyce have changed in a short 24 hours. Thank you so much for helping me see her the way You do. I hope I can help her."
Jesus says, "You have already. And I think you've learned some valuable lessons about loving people you don't like, right Fran?"
"Right, Lord," she answers.
Maybe there are some unlikable people in your life, and you need to learn that lesson, too.
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