A few days ago I was heading to my car in a discount store parking lot, when a man walking toward me suddenly stopped and froze in place. I thought maybe he had forgotten something and was about to turn around but instead his hands flew to his face, and he sneezed violently.
In such instances, I am in the habit of saying, “God bless you.” But this time, for some reason, it occurred to me to finish the “bless you” prayer. I said, “God bless you with clear sinuses and good health.”
He looked at me. I smiled. Then a broad smile spread across his face, and he thanked me. We both continued on our way, but I knew that I had stumbled upon a new way to pray.
Read More: The Bible’s Secret Joy
How often have I said, “God bless you,” to someone’s sneeze? It is a courteous response, but one that seldom means much to either the giver or the receiver. But that day in that parking lot, I had accidentally done more than be polite; I had prayed for the guy.
I recommend it. In fact, the next time, I hope to be more creative or appropriate to the situation. I might say, “God bless you with long life” or “God bless you physically and financially.” Or “God bless you every which way.”
The possibilities are endless and exciting to me: “God bless you all day long,” “God bless you and your little dog, too,” and “God bless you and keep you and make His face shine upon you.” Or even “God bless you until you’re sick of being blessed!”
So I plan to keep doing it. I plan to get better at it. And I can hardly wait until the next time someone sneezes.
