Coffee & Donuts, 3/15/09
Today is a great day for the Enyart family to be out by the Shores drinking coffee and eating donuts with our friends who do not have a home.
I understand a little more about how much God cares about his people.
We went down to the Shores and one of our friends who is homeless (Julius) was already there waiting for us. He greeted my sons with a smile and a gift for each of my boys. My husband told him that Chase sometimes rode his bike in the dark. So Julius got Chase a brake light so people can see Chase in the dark. I cannot tell you how much it means to me to have a friend like him who is thoughtful, and cares about my boys. Julius got Griff a toy. He was so excited to open the wrapper and showed Griff how to play with the toy.
I sat there listening to a lady share about her life, and how much she appreciated what other people did for her. She mentioned about a warm meal, a warm shower, clean clothes, and being able to hear a message from God. I realized their needs can be so simple but often overlooked by the busyness of life.
I watched one of the other gentlemen, Martin, almost in tears because he was able to call his family with Jared's cell phone. Simple things huh?
After the breakfast, we had one of Jared's friends who is staying at the tent for the homeless at our home. He is starting his business and soon he won't be homeless. How do I put this experience into words? I am truly grateful to have a home to offer him a warm shower and a simple quesadilla to give him for lunch. He shared with us about his life and how he came to SD. When my husband asked him if he needed anything. I was surprised to hear socks, and an extra pair of pants. He said the hot shower was the highlight of his day.
Last Thursday, we talked about coming up with a list of things the homeless people might need. I think more then anything is to be respected, and not looked down on because of where they are in life. Physically, I think socks, warm food, a place to take a shower, or just simply care about them from our heart, but not from our fears. I offered my ears today to listen, and my eyes today to engaged in the conversation. Jared offered his cell phone so one of the homeless people can call his loved one.
So, what do l learn from God...
God did not care when I was dirty with sins. God washed my sins away through baptism. God gives me food to eat and clothes me with his love. He gives me a place to live and a hope to look forward to. He cares for my thoughts and he listens to my prayers. He wants a relationship with me and he doesn't care where I am in life. He brings me good and not harm. He sat at the sinners’ table to eat with ME.
May you look for blessings in your life and may you give to others because God first gives you.
Shelly
Comments
Wow thanks for sharing this. And for being friends in a time where simple things make a huge impact.
Posted by: David | March 25, 2009 04:34 PM