And Then I Saw Jesus...

Crystal and I had taken the girls to my parents before we headed to Florida. They live in Central Illinois so it was easier for us to fly out of St. Louis than Chicago (and the tickets were cheaper too). So as Crystal and I made our way without children to the airport we had time to stop in St. Louis, visit with my sister and her family and get something to eat. While walking out of the restaurant and going to the van, a homeless man with one leg was asking for money. As I opened the door for Crystal to get in the van, I decided to go over and explain to the guy that I didn’t have any cash. Apparently as I moved towards him I had a very intimidating look. I know I am thinking the same thing…me…intimidating? Regardless he thought I was coming over to either verbally launch on him or physically do something to him. His response was, “hey man! I am just homeless. Just looking for help, not any trouble!”

Well after we both laughed at my “intimidation” I spent the next several minutes just talking to him. He explained how he lost his leg in a hit and run accident and then was more than willing to show me the scars from being dragged down the street. We talked about his fear of the shelters and how he was surviving at night in his “place”. After a few more minutes of conversation we shook hands and the homeless man said to the preacher, “God bless you man. Thanks for talking with me. Most people just walk by.”

As I got in the van, Crystal had some cash, so I hopped out and put it in his cup, gave him a big smile and he returned one as well. A big “God bless you” again and we drove away.
Jesus once said whatever you do for the least of these you do for me. So at first I saw a homeless guy with one leg….and then I saw Jesus.