It is odd how we landmark terrible events like covid. I’m remembering a short-term missions trip that took place B.C. (before covid). We were in the Appalachians in West Virginia. So many happy memories from that group of believers who believed that we could make a difference by serving a community in the name of Jesus. I was the oldest so some construction activity was not suitable but I could sweep and clean. We also served lunches to the street people. In that area there was a huge fentanyl issue on the streets. We did a garage sale (or cleaned out the donations for free on the street). We had good weather and fellowship but a hard church basement floor to sleep on. As the first week progressed, a few people returned to the front porch to visit with me. Pretty soon one of the leaders suggested I take the porch swing seriously and connect with the addicts and others in need. I know these people and have known people close to me with out-of-control addiction issues. I don’t “get” them per se, but I love them and feel empathy. Jesus modeled extreme patience with hurting people and did it perfectly. I just locked eyes and listened to people who are often overlooked. It is not a gift and I am not special but I understand that we are to lift up Jesus and He noticed people. Yes, there are times when we want to take a wide swath around someone who looks like trouble but I think Jesus headed in their direction. He headed toward me and you. I’ve told this story before but as I head out on another short-term missions trip, I value that a leader saw me and gave me something of value to do. I am, again, the oldest on this trip and hope to serve well and not fall down on the job with an excuse related to maturity. Jesus left this earth at His prime as a man. I wonder if the plan might have ever been to allow Him to grow old and then give His life for us? Just a thought but I don’t normally question God in His timing of things unless I have been praying desperately for a soon answer! God is seldom early but never late and the days are long but the years are short. That is all I have time for today…except to thank C and T, from that trip, for coming on Sunday to pray for this next trip. Prayer means everything when heading out again.
