Finding Unexpected Thankfulness Among the Least, the Last, and the Lost

Last Friday night, as we checked in at the front desk of the Mission, my friend Bill and I encountered a man behind the welcome desk who had once been a client at the shelter. “William” was glad to see us. A smile cracked his face as he shared our impact on his life through the monthly chapel services we provide at the Mission. He had come to the shelter downtrodden, destitute, desperately needing a smidgen of hope to anchor his sinking life onto. Several people poured truth into his life, including members of our team. Now, he was back on his feet, in love with Jesus, and working at the shelter part-time in addition to his full-time gig. Both Bill and I were humbled and grateful at the testimony “William” shared with us as we checked into the Mission.

Through the years, we’ve seen numerous people come and go at the Mission. Thankfully, some of the men are able to get their lives back on track, recovering from whatever disastrous life event that unraveled their world. Some of the wounds are self-inflicted. Many are simply living out the circumstances evolving out of situations beyond the scope of their control. Yes, there is bad decision making involved. Yes, there are wrong choices that were made. Sure. And so what?  As believers, we’re called to help our fellow brothers, loving on them as best we can. The reasons why they find themselves at the shelter are not nearly as important as helping them identify the keys that will lead them home.

I’m thankful for my faithful ministry partners who minister to these men each and every month. We’re seeing real life change happen. We’re seeing people come to know God more deeply because we cared enough to try and make God known. You just never know the impact you may have on another person’s life unless you try.

Whose life can you shed light on today?

Blessings,

The Devotional Guy™