At times we think of a mission trip as being one of those things where all we do is bless people by our actions. In this story you will find that this is not the case. I never thought I would be put into a position where I could possibly meet Jesus. This month I did. Jesus is 45 and is also known as Bryan. He lives in Perth, Australia, is currently single, has never been married and is completely bald. Yep, that's my description of Jesus. I always saw people from the way they presented themselves on the outside. It's hard to say, but haven't we all? When you are busy with your own life and struggles do you really want to take on someone else's. Jesus does this everyday for every single person in this world. This was definitely a test for me from God this month.
That is what I chose to do this month. Bryan has been in and out of AA and also on the streets off and on. I met him at Weld Square. For those who do not know, Weld Square was one of my ministries this month. We went to socialize with and feed the homeless and low income singles and/or families in the community at a local park. If you know me I love to have conversations with people I barely know, but Bryan was different from the rest. There was something about him that I wanted to grab onto and not let go. His heart, his mind, and his soul was longing to be loved and cared for by someone who was genuine. I hope that he found all of these thing in our relationship because I honestly did love and care for him. I saw him about 3-4 times a week and anytime we hung out we continued our conversation from where we had left off. We laughed, we cried and shared our stories like old friends catching up. We were placed in each others' lives for a reason. He taught me how to love someone from the inside without being skewed by the outward appearance. Bryan taught me that no matter what you go through in life you keep on trekin' because if you don't you will get left behind and fall ten steps back. Now granted he has had his ups and downs with alcohol and smoking, but he knows what it takes to remain on top of his struggles and addictions. It's all about finding the strength to make the right choice.
There is a saying that you should treat everyone like Jesus. When you are disgusted by them, love them. When you want to turn your back on them, don't. When you think they are not worthy then look at yourself and ask if you are even worthy of things you are not willing to give. Forgiveness, love, care, honesty and etc. They are sons and daughters of God just like we are. Treat them like Jesus. Show Christ's love when the devil is right in your face. You can never go wrong. When your heart feels with bitterness and hate then pray about it and rebuke such thoughts. Jesus would be so proud of you.
If I did not treat him like Jesus where would we both be? I would have never gotten out of this month what I did if I passed up the experience just because someone's outside appearance. Looking back I can name many opportunities where I could have learned more by giving people a chance. All they need is a chance. God gives you many chances. Even when you mess up he is always there. No matter what you do he will continue to pursue you. He will follow, chase, sprint and run towards you till you are fully with him. From then on out you will reap the benefits of what you sow.
Simple.
Just love.
Listen to your heart.
I did.
And I met Jesus.
I introduce you now to Bryan. This picture was taken on our last night at Weld Square.
God Bless ya'll !!
