A bike crash in a city park led Lilly to an unexpected friendship—and eventually to a new believer. What began with a simple offer to help became a connection that changed both their lives.
If Lilly* had known that her routine bike ride would end in a crash—and eventually lead to a new friendship and a new believer—she might have thought twice about getting on her bike that day.
Instead, the accident opened an unexpected door.
Lilly was riding through a city park when she crashed, landing on the pavement. As she sat recovering, a woman across the grass noticed what had happened and began pushing her walker toward her.
"Are you all right?" she asked.
"Yes," Lilly replied. "Thank you for checking."
The woman introduced herself as Sara*. As they talked, Lilly learned that Sara spent much of her time helping people living with illness or limited mobility, and that she and others had already organized several ways to serve them.
Lilly saw an opportunity to connect.
"My church community and I are always looking for ways to help others," she told her. "We would be happy to support what you are doing if you ever need extra help."
Sara welcomed the offer.
The two stayed in contact, and what began as a conversation after an accident grew into a friendship. Lilly's faith community began supporting Sara's work, and Sara became interested in learning more about their faith.
She began attending Sabbath gatherings and studying the Bible with Lilly and others.
In time, Sara chose to be baptized in a discreet location and joined the Adventist family. Through her, others in her circle have begun showing interest as well.
Lilly still rides through that park, a little more carefully now. When she passes the spot where she fell, she's grateful that she found not only a friend that day, but a sister.