It is never too late

It is no use to say that we are born two thousand years too late to give room to Christ. Nor will those who live at the end of the world have been born too late. Christ is always with us, always asking for room in our hearts. But now it is with the voice of our contemporaries that he speaks… with the heart of anyone in need that he longs for shelter. And giving shelter or food to anyone who asks for it, or needs it, is giving it to Christ.  Dorothy Day, The Catholic Worker (December 1945)

         At Manna House, Christ does come to us in the stranger’s guise, as Jesus promised, “Whatever you do to the least of these you do unto me” (Matthew 25:36-41).

         Christ came this morning at Manna House in Robert Lee singing Christmas carols by himself on the couch.  He was irrepressible.  I’ll never forget his tears from three years ago when he consoled me about the death of my Dad.

         Christ came this morning in Eric J., who is always ready with a word about his momma, or how he’s blessed to be alive.

         Christ came this morning in Michael who ever so gently and quietly asked if he could get a pair of socks even though he knew the list was full.  Byron graciously obliged him.

         Christ came this morning in Michael who asked me to pray for him as he was feeling woozy and his arm felt funny.  I told him I’d pray for him but also that he needed to get to the emergency room.  He promised me he would.

         Christ came this morning in Bob who brought sad news from the streets of a prostitute who sometimes came to Manna House, who was killed.  Bob said, “She had a big heart, she loved so many, Jesus loved her.”

         I could add more names and stories.  It was a typical morning at Manna House; nothing special happened, except Christ came through the door again and again.

         Here’s my plea, aimed particularly at Christians and their churches, please open your hearts and your doors to Christ who is on the streets.  Room in the Inn needs your help.  You could offer shelter to 12 people one night a week or once a month.  Contact Lisa Anderson.  901-246-8052.  You will experience the joy of serving Christ.  Jesus himself guarantees it.