Note: This is a very raw, uncorrected, not pre-meditated, post – that is happening to me right this moment. I have not had much time to think this through - so my writing will be reactionary. My opinions and actions are subject to change.
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At this moment there is a homeless person sitting, asleep, in the church waiting room, looking for a handout, smelling of urine, cigarettes, and general uncleanness. She suffers from multiple-personality syndrome and wanders in and out of different persona in the middle of sentences. She is waiting because she insists on speaking with the Senior Pastor, who I am most certainly not.
The question I am asking myself right now is – if I were Senior Pastor, what would I do?
She has offered to work around the church, cleaning, dusting, doing whatever odd job we can find. All she wants’ in return is a bus ticket out of town. I know the church does not have the money for a bus ticket; our policy is to give food vouchers – which we are out of due to high demand.
I believe, and preach, that the church needs to offer real help to people such as this – but how? What do we do? What can we give that would possibly change her situation? How can I really make any sort of difference here?
Some would suggest prayer, which I have already engaged in. Undoubtedly, many people have prayed for her, to deliver her from her affliction, for healing – but God has obviously chosen not to do anything about it, and perhaps with good reason.
Part of my job is to help people find need in this world and address it, and now need is sitting right outside my office and I don’t know what to do. I want to believe that my hands are tied, which they are to a certain degree, so that I can absolve myself of any responsibility.
At the moment the best I can do is offer her a bottle of water and part of my lunch, and a little human companionship – which I think I will go and do. I think that, even if he couldn’t perform a miracle in this situation Jesus would do at least this.
But first some questions for you…
What would you do? What do you do when faced with a situation like this? What feelings arise?
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3 comments:
I love the disclaimer. ;)
We are all definitley taken back when our beliefs are put to test. I think your initial steps are great. Prayer, lunch, water, compainionship. Sometimes that helps enough. However, in her case I'm not sure.
I always remember when I feel my hands are tied and I don't have the means to help... that people with MUCH less find ways to help.
I guess if I were in your shoes I'd offer her what you have. Possibley a shower & change of clothes if that was accessable. Then I'd find out where she wanted to go and if I knew anyone traveling that way. The bus is lonely... a car ride buddy would be excellent. Of course her disoder would make it interesting to say the least. Maybe a helps center could assist.
Bottom line is... anything to show care & compassion is probably more than she receives anyways. Go with your heart and do what you can to help.
Heh, I am something of a wimp when it comes to stench. I'd certainly have to cross the fence (as you so elegantly put it) to avoid reacting as normal to such a person in such a circumstance. I have the hardest time with those whose wires are crossed and I perceive I cannot relate to them. I reckon there will be opportunities to grow in that regard. Your post reminds me of this.
I hope you did well. As Jesus says in Mark 14:7, "The poor you will always have with you....", therefore if you missed this opportunity, more will come up. You don't seem like the sort who will harden your heart in that regard (though it is possible for any of us to do so).
I find your story throughout this blog rather fascinating and challenging all at once. I look forward to reading more of it.
Thanks for the comment Mr. Bethesda. The real trouble we found in this situation was her belligerence and violent nature. Since writing this blog - she has been put in jail.
I came to a place where I felt we had to offer tough love in a way. We are willing to help, but on our terms (which are really terms that are best for her, not just for us). She refused, but continues to show up (at least on Sundays) and we continue to offer the same help, in Love. Perhaps she will respond, perhaps not.
This is a pragmatic way of helping, and does nothing to sooth my heart in regards to justice and her situation. My prayer is that I, and those reading this blog or attending churches I'm serving in, will be a people of Faith, Hope and Love - a people seeking justice in the here and now, not just some far off day in heaven.
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