DRUM ROLL! The winner of the drawing for a copy of Kathy Carlton Willis’s new book, Grin with Grace, is Dana Rausch! Thank you Dana for entering your name and thanks for everyone who did! I recommend everyone get this book. It’s available online and in your local Christian bookstore. Congrats Dana!
On Sunday, the last day of the women’s retreat where I was a speaker, I sat at the book table, selling and autographing books. Kris came up and bought a copy of one of my books and I began autographing for her.
On Sunday, the last day of the women’s retreat where I was a speaker, I sat at the book table, selling and autographing books. Kris came up and bought a copy of one of my books and I began autographing for her.
“Oh, no, wait!” she exclaimed. “I’m not buying it for myself but for a friend. I want it autographed to her.”
I’d only written down “Kris,” so I said, “Oh, I’m sorry, I should have asked like I usually do. I’ll get another one for you.” I put the book aside and autographed another for her friend. A while later, I packed the book with the “mistaken” autograph into my briefcase and drove away, the briefcase beside me on the front seat.
A few minutes later, I thought how good a diet soda would taste, but I didn’t think I’d stop. Better to head straight home. No, I’d sure like something to drink. I will stop.
There were two different routes I could take, but remembering a drive-through hamburger place I’d seen on the way, I decided to drive that way.
Pulling up to the drive-in window, I ordered a diet soda and gave the young woman my money. She smiled and said, “I see you’re dressed up. Did you just come from church?”
“No,” I replied, “I’m coming home from speaking at a women’s retreat. Do you go to church?”
“Usually I do, but I couldn’t today because I had to work.”
We started talking and I inquired about her faith in God. She said she was a Christian, and we talked briefly. In a few minutes, she turned away to get my drink, and I heard God whisper in my heart, “Give her the book.” (Tweet that!)
I looked at my briefcase and wondered how I’d explain to her that someone else’s name was in it. I’ll tell her that’s how I can give it to her free—because of the autographing mistake. OK Lord, I’ll be glad to do that.
I retrieved the book. “Wouldn’t it be a coincidence if her name is Kris?” I thought.
“Oh, sure, Kathy, dream on!” I smiled at the far-fetched idea.
The woman came back to the window and handed me the drink. I spoke up, “Remember how I told you I was the speaker at that retreat? Well, I’m also an author, and I’d like to give you a copy of my book. By the way, what’s your name?”
She smiled at the prospect of getting a free book and answered, “My name’s Kris.”
I laughed and explained the situation. “I guess God wants you to have this.” She enthusiastically thanked me.
A few minutes later as I drove away, I marveled at God’s handiwork. (Tweet that!) “Incredible, God! Thank you for blessing me through giving that book away. You show me so many times that you are completely in control.”
GOOSE BUMPS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 🙂 Soooooooo cool!!!!