February 23, 2012 - Anonymous

Read Matthew 25:34-40

Reflections on working at the cold weather shelter
(evenings that have changed my life)

So many faces, so many soiled clothes, so so many dirty hands, some
don't smell too good...

So many polite, meek, grateful people; grateful for the help you give...
So many thankful people when you give them a towel, a washcloth, a bar
of soap....
So many thankful people when they get a bag of thier clothes returned
folded and clean...
So many thankful people when you give them a smile...

"Do you have any noodles or crackers tonight? Thank you so much."
"Do you have a cup for coffee, 3 sugars and a creamer please."
"May I please have a wake up call so I can get to work."
"Thanks for comiong tonight, come back please."
"You remembered my name, thank you."

The initial unpleasant feelings fall away quickly as I spend a little
time with them. Their grateful gestures and words flood the evening
and tiime pases quickly. It becomes a priveledge to help and serve
those less fortunate. I will never look at someone on the street the
same again. As I pull away, I find myself looking forward to the next
time I can be at the shelter. Everytime I hear the song "The Face of
Christ" by Chirstopher Rice, I think of my friends at the shelter. The
chorus goes like this...

"How did I find myself in a better place?
I cant look down at the frown on another man's face
Cause when I stoop down low, look him square in the eyes,
I get this feeling, that I just might be dealing with the face of Christ."

Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you for all the wonderful things you have done for me and all the blessings I have today. Help me to treat all others with charity, compassion, and tolerance. Make me mindful of the needs of others so I can be lead to help and serve, as you teach us to do. In your name I pray. Amen.

Prayer Concern: The Homeless.