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Reaching Out

I Met a Homeless Woman Named Mary

Several years ago I was attending a conference in New Orleans. It was getting tiring, so I escaped from the conference and walked to the historic French Quarter. As I was walking along, I was asked by a woman in a wheel chair for money. It turns out she was a sister in the Lord named Mary. She told me that after her husband died, she lost her home, and was living in a homeless shelter.
I gave her a little money, along with ”The Greatest Danger” quote (see www.firstlutheranlr.com/reaching-out/). She read it, was really touched, and asked if she could share it with others. I said sure, and gave her the rest of the cash in my billfold (about $15), for her to make copies and give to the 100 other people in the homeless shelter where she was residing. So Mary went from being a homeless beggar on the streets to becoming a missionary with a purpose and a tool to share with everyone in her homeless shelter. That’s what happens when we discover God’s purpose for
our lives; we become transformed from being beggars in the world into bold ambassadors for Christ and the Kingdom of God.
I have learned that when we encounter a homeless person (or any person), always seek guidance from the Holy Spirit first, for we don’t know who this person is or what is going on in his/her life. Then respond accordingly. Sharing a Bible passage or compelling Christian quote with a fast-food coupon or $5 can meet an immediate need, with the potential to transform a person’s life into eternity. However, giving money without a witness to our Lord is like taking that person to the dentist, getting anesthesia, but not addressing the tooth decay; it really doesn’t change things.
Every person we meet has had some experience with religion. It might have been good or bad, and they may never have met a Spirit-led Christian. If they won’t come to church, then we need to take the church – the body of Christ – to them, witnessing and sharing the love and truth of Christ to all the Lord brings across our path.
“Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” Hebrews 12:14
To God be the glory
Board of Evangelism