Today I learned a lesson:
We took a drive this afternoon and came upon quite a sight. On the corner of a main thoroughfare and a side street of houses were the most adorable little girls setting up their lemonade stand. They had the table and chairs, pitchers of lemonade, a cooler on the side and signs. One was shouting, "Get your lemonade" to every car that passed by. We drove past them and turned right back around on the next street. I couldn't help myself. Just the sight of these girls, doing their thing, having fun on a Sunday afternoon was more than I could handle. I was in love with them before we got out of the car.
As we approached the "place of business" I saw the sign that said "Lemonade: 50 cents". I don't know if we were their first customers and 10th, but they greeted us with gusto. Just their smiles put a smile on my face. The dad came quickly out as soon as he realized they had customers. He was bringing reinforcement pitchers of lemonade, and they were setting the selections in order. As we were handed the properly-paid-for drink of choice, one of the entrepreneurs asked if we would like some ice to go with it. My husband said, "Yes" and she reached her HAND in the ice chest and placed it in his cup. It was priceless! We waved as we drove away and talked about the sweetness of the encounter.
These girls taught me the lesson today. They believed in what they are doing. They had joy and contentment in the labor of their work. They expressed happiness in showing their products to people passing by. Their smiles were a picture into their hearts. They loved what they were doing. As Christians. we could learn much from these little ones who had no idea of the lessons they were showing me on the corner of a street in a small town.
So, I learned something today. I learned that sometimes things really do cost only 50 cents, and I learned that God can speak through just a smile and a simple cup of lemonade.
I'm just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I've found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am.
Phil. 4:12-13
