The other day I was in the drive-thru line at my favorite fast-food restaurant when I noticed, sitting across the way, a homeless man and his dog. My first thought was the same as it had been for years, “This man is too lazy to work and wants to freeload off of the patrons of this restaurant. Well, I’m not going to be the fool who gives him money so he can go buy his booze.”
My second thought was a clear, gentle, and distinct voice that resonated in my conscience, saying in effect, “Now you have no idea what that man’s story is whatsoever. Suppose he is lazy, suppose he is an alcoholic; but while you’re at it, suppose he was abused as a child by an angry father, perhaps he was abandoned by a mother too caught up in her addiction to care, perhaps he has a mental handicap, has had a nervous breakdown, and on and on. The point is, you have no way of knowing this man’s story whatsoever.”
As I pulled up to order my food, I realized I was about to do something that I wouldn’t have considered five minutes earlier…buy this man a meal.
When I walked up to him, he shied away at first. He’d seen his share of hassles, I’m sure. But when he saw I had food, he smiled broadly and peaceably, extended his hand to shake mine, and said quite sincerely, “Thank you and God bless.” I was deeply moved. I simply looked him in the eye and said “God bless YOU, my friend.” And I meant it.
I hope this encourages you today.
Kevin
-Kevin Murray
© 02/25/2013 All rights reserved
Awesome. I often have the same thought, making a snap judgement about others. I hope I don’t ignore God the next time he prompts me to love others. I look forward to hearing His voice!
Loved this post!
I have done the same (bought food for someone obviously in need), but not often enough. Too often I’m in too big a hurry to notice or jump to the same judgemental conclusions. Thanks for the reminder of the truth of Matthew 25, “unto the least of these…”
That’s the perfect passage, Stan! Matthew 25:35-40. Those verses will bring a tear to the eye and put some motivation in our step.
I too have for some time now stopped making/passing judgement & instead try to help in Jesus name.
JUDGEMENT BELONGS ONLY TO GOD!
I have struggled with this as well. It is easy to judge quickly, however you are correct that we have no way of knowing what lead this man to where he is today. I’m encouraged!
I know the feeling. I think that in most cases we (middle class America) don’t know how to interact with someone that lives a life so different from us. “What would we even say if they asked a question?”, etc.
I had a similar experience once in Boston. I had bought a big fat muffin and was walking somewhere and saw a homeless woman sitting in a building inset along my path. I stopped, look at her, and said “Would you like a muffin?”. She seem shocked but gratefully accepted it. A block later I bought another muffin.
It was simple to do but may have been impactful to her (or him in your case).
Good to hear from you Paul! I really appreciate your perspective and the heart you have for those who are struggling. Christ is working through you, my friend. Boy, what a blessing it will be when we are transformed into His image and won’t have to be reminded to help the down and out. Thanks for helping me to NOT lose sight of that.
Kevin,
My wife and I were in downtown Decatur Friday for a wedding. As we got out I started loading quarters in the meter and a homeless guy came over and said “You don’t have to pay after 6:00”. I thanked him and he said he needed $10.00 to have a bed that night. I gave him $5.00 and told him he was half way there. Did he use it for that? Or did he buy something else with the money? Didn’t matter… What ever we do for them, We are doing for HIM! Love you brother!!
You need to be writing this blog!
I’m encouraged too! This is a good day to reach out to someone we wouldn’t ordinarily reach out to. Come to think of it, everyday is such a day!
Hey Kevin, I’ve been working with homeless and addicted men for 16 years. For most of those years I would not give money to them because, I didn’t want to help their addiction. One Sunday in church my pastor said that he would give to those on the street that were begging because of Matthew 25 and the words about those that give to those in need . He went on to say that he is not responsible for what they do with the money. I however give food more than anything. I love your website and as always, I love to hear your thoughts of wisdom.