Just One Encounter Away

Lilia Grundy shares stories illustrating how a single encounter can impact a life.

One Conversation 

As I was approaching the completion of my “Transformation Challenge” at my fitness club, I began to feel the doubts pile on. But in the midst of my temptations, I heard the voice of my fellow, small group member in my mind: “You got this!”  

While we haven’t known each other for very long, I have come to adore this self-proclaimed, feisty, retired, Italian woman: a former weightlifter. She recently joined a few of the parish groups that I participate in, and she’s motivated me to take on new physical challenges.  

I am grateful for her encouragement but surprisingly, it was an encounter with me that moved her to be more active in the Church, “I haven’t been involved with anything for so long. Lilia, you said such encouraging words to me that I decided to join groups … and it’s been such as blessing.”  

I was reminded of that moment when we first spoke. To think that one, simple chat spurred my new friend to eagerly join our parish ministries warms my heart. She’s already influencing others positively, and all it took was one conversation.  

One Moment 

When Zacchaeus, the tax collector, wanted to get a glimpse of Jesus, he ran up the sycamore tree to try to get a better view. But Jesus didn’t just let him remain there hidden away, He called him directly,  

Jesus looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house." (Luke 19:5) 

It was that one moment that changed the rest of Zacchaeus’ life. And there’s an awesome opportunity for us that we are called to emulate:

“Your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father. (Matthew 5:16)

I think about the stories shared across my Lenten small groups, and how each member is shining their light to others. 

One woman welcomes each patient to her dental clinic, many of whom haven’t had the resources to visit for a long time. They are self-conscious when they arrive because their teeth have debilitated but she reassures them with a simple smile that they are safe and tells them, “It is so good to see you and so good you are here!” They leave happy and confident. 

Another group member, when encountering a homeless person, doesn’t simply offer them money. She asks them to accompany her into the store and has them select the items they choose so they are filled with dignity and self-worth. 

I am inspired how one moment can impact another with joy and hope. 

One Day 

Each morning, I recite the Morning Prayer Before Work and I especially appreciate the line, “May the work that I do and the way I do it bring faith, joy and a smile to all that I come in contact with today.” I remind myself that the simple things — a smile, a compliment, an encouragement — can plant the seed of faith. 

It goes both ways! One day, I was lingering behind in the church after a retreat and I was a bit discouraged by the lack of interactivity. One of the faith formation directors gauged I was feeling this way and said,  

“You know, it only takes one person to make a difference.” She emboldened me that day, and I subsequently started a group for female professionals. My life has changed forever. 

My prayer for all my fellow Catholic moms is that we continue to remember that we can all be a light to others, one day at a time.  

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Copyright 2025 Lilia Grundy
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