A rejection and the blessings that followed

My name is Keziah Walker, and I was one of the many students who participated in the Kentucky/Tennessee Summer Canvassing Program of 2023. Amidst the numerous memorable encounters I had while canvassing, one experience stands out.

As lunchtime approached, my goal was to distribute at least three more books before being picked up. The Lowe’s parking lot I was canvassing was bustling with people, but the question lingered—whom should I approach? With a prayer in my heart and a smile on my face, I approached a man loading his purchases into his vehicle. There was something about the situation that made me chuckle, prompting him to start laughing as well. I introduced myself to Charles* and handed him the first book in my hand, “They Call Him Jesus” (Desire of Ages). To my surprise, Charles’ smiles instantly turned to anger, and he made it clear he was “not interested.” Still smiling, I wished Charles a good day and walked away, silently questioning why I had shown him a religious book when my habit was to start with health books.

Walking in the opposite direction, I spotted another man loading two-by-fours into his truck. I approached him, introduced myself, and told him about my books. He ended up taking the books that Charles had declined. As we concluded the transaction, Charles rolled up behind me, offering an apology for his initial rejection and even bringing me some water. A conversation ensued, revealing that Charles had once been a Christian but now considered Christianity foolish. After some discussion, Charles handed me water and a fold of money, stating that he respected what I stood for.

To my amazement, Charles had given me sixty dollars, allowing me to give away at least four books to those who couldn’t afford them. Soon enough, I encountered someone who would benefit from Charles’ generosity.

After lunch, stationed in the Kroger parking lot for further canvassing, I met Henry*. Fresh from the store, Henry expressed profound interest in the books I offered. He couldn’t even wait to close the sale before expressing his need for these books. Though disappointed that he couldn’t afford them, Henry’s eyes never left the books he held. It was then that I remembered Charles’ cash gift.

“Henry, you may have these books. Someone has generously donated so that you could receive this blessing.”

Henry’s eyes welled up, expressing gratitude. “When I finish reading these books,” he said emotionally. “I’d love to meet you again to thank you and pay you for them.” I explained it might be impossible for us to meet again on Earth, but if he built a relationship with Jesus Christ through these books, and I continued doing the same, we’d meet in heaven. Tears streamed down Henry’s cheeks as he declared, “I am going to read these books and make it to heaven to meet my heavenly Father and you.”

A lump formed in my throat, but I nodded and smiled through my own tears. “See you in Heaven!” were Henry’s parting words.

Miracles unfold every day on the canvassing field, and this experience was a special one for me — a testament to God’s work in touching a heart that had lost trust, enabling other hungry souls to receive the bread of life.

* Names have been changed to protect the identity of the individuals