Feeding a Holy Discontent

feeding a holy discontent...the lost can still be found.

Stay close to your "Holy Discontent" was the repeated message delivered on May 30th 2009, A message I once heard during one of the Leadership Summit. The message didn't hit me as much, the first time I heard it-so thank God for repetition.

Homeless, Hungry, Broken, Alone...those were the written words of this gentleman whom I had the privilege to greet. Sitting on a folded quilt (in a clear garbage bag) reading his book. I asked him boldly, with fear, if i could take some pictures of him. I expected a yes or a no but he asked, why? How awesome was that?-totally a great question for conversation. I explained the sermon that was spoken and how i wanted to apply by feeding it, because I couldn't take anymore of it-and he nodded with an understanding look and said, OK. I was really surprised and thanked him.

I first asked him what his name was and what he was reading. He told me he was reading a book of soldiers in the army. Then I introduced myself to him as i squatted closer to his level on the floor.

I snapped my 1st shot and the settings on my camera were completely wrong-so in my nerves of him saying no mores shots-I began to ask him more questions, which he answered.

Meet a friend:

Robert, un Puertoriqueno, raised in Brooklyn, who lost his job, who is now living in the streets, likes to read, write, and play handball, he's 42yrs old and has no children.

I wondered how he felt being ignored by so many on a day to day basis-he just shrugged his shoulders as if he did not care. I was curious about his lifestyle and really wanted to get to know what his feelings were on being homeless and what he wanted for someone like me to do.

He said that he did not want to be in the streets-he wanted a bed in a little home to sleep on. He just wants to grow old and he knows that its no ones obligation to help him but he can't rely on shelters (they're closing all around) and just wants to get back on his feet. If there are any programs that will help him get a job and an apartment that would be good enough. I think I need to start researching.

I realized that day that one thing that homeless people have is food, cigarettes, and beverages-thank God for "nice people" who cover that area. Some are lacking dignity, love, warmth, and grace.

I may not have made a difference in this mans life financially or in any other way but knowing what he wants can help lead my prayers.

I asked Robert one last question: "Hey Robert what was your best experience today?" he replied "huh (big sigh), none--none since a really long time."

I don't usually give out tracks or knock people out with godly books-but i handed him a very small book called "He Loves Me" by Pastor Aimee Cortese. I shared my expeirience with him and how loved i felt after reading this small devotion. He smiled and took it and said thank you.

That was the end of my encounter with Robert.