small world and a great quote

i feel like i've written a lot about miss saigon recently.
yup, i have.
i felt like i ought to branch out, but it's consumed me and it is my life right now. so, it makes sense to me that my life lessons (the things God is teaching me and leading me through) come from my experiences in and around the show.
so, here's another one...
one of my fellow cast members had a death in his family this week. it was an unexpected blow to the family (as these cases often are), but they seem to be grieving appropriately. it was hard with rehearsals to make time to attend any part of the memorial to support him, but i was able to make it to the funeral on thursday morning.
i really enjoyed the message of the pastor (whom i did not know). it was very appropriate for such a time. one thing he said that really impacted me even though i didn't know the decedent is that "no man can offer comfort, that is God's job. but, our availability shows we care."
so many times, i try to formulate the right thing to say in so many diverse situations. i try to figure out how, in 25 words or less, to express my heart and empathy. (i do have a heart and empathy, though i never feel like i show it well, hence my desire for words.) but, the preacher's words gently reminded me to get out of the way, to shut my mouth and let God work through me. my availability to God will translate to availability to those in need.
so God, i pray that you use me every day and in every way to show forth Your light. i am Your vessel to be used for Your purposes.
after the service, i saw an old friend--someone that didn't know yet about our youngest son. it was nice to reminice for a short time and to remind her that there was a church family that loved her and would love to see her again soon and often. as we were about to part ways, it dawned on me that i didn't know her connection to the departed. so, i asked. it turns out that she worked with him at a local establishment. it is a small world.
my prayers will now double--comfort for the family and friends of the departed will continue, but i will also add prayers for the prodigal to return home.
God, bless us, everyone.