Get Gas
But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. John 16:7
In The Familiar Stranger, Tyler Staton (re)introduces us to the Holy Spirit in a way that feels both grounding and alive. It’s a powerful read—I’ve underlined so much of it. At one point, he quotes Pete Greig: “Learn to listen to His voice in the anti-climax of life’s non-events.”
That line stayed with me.
The other day, I was driving to Chick-fil-A for my usual Diet Coke when I decided to play songs about the Holy Spirit. Within moments, I felt tears welling up.
As I drove, I noticed I had about a quarter tank of gas. I debated—should I fill up now or wait another day? It felt small, insignificant. Easy to postpone.
Then, as I pulled out of the drive-thru, I sensed a quiet prompting:
“Get gas.”
Don’t delay. It felt like such an odd nudge.
Still, I turned into Kroger to fill up. As I made the turn, I noticed a woman standing nearby, holding a small piece of cardboard. I couldn’t read what it said, but something in me stirred.
After pumping gas, I circled back. She was still there.
I parked, ran inside to get some cash, and walked toward her—cars passing in both directions, my heart pounding just a bit. I handed her a folded $20 bill.
She received it with both hands, holding it in her palms as if it were a prayer.
“What’s your name?” I asked.
“Melody,” she said.
“I’m Rebecca. Nice to meet you.”
As I drove away, I saw her heading toward the store—maybe for a meal, maybe for something to carry her through the day.
And I thought: That was the Spirit.
A simple nudge. A small act.
An “anti-climax” moment that, somehow, felt anything but small.
Reflection
When was the last time you sensed a prompting from the Spirit in the “anti-climax of life’s non-events”?
How did you respond? Did you reflect on it—journal it, or share it with someone?
Prayer
Lord, I move through life too quickly and often miss Your voice. Help me to slow down, to become more aware of Your presence, and to follow through when You nudge my heart. Amen.