I heard these words immediately after getting out of the car after parking next to a parking meter in a thriving metropolis.
The man, dressed in sweats, walks timidly closer.
"It doesn't cost to park on Saturdays."
"I'm sorry sir, the sign says it cost before 5pm."
"Oh, it does, okay," he replies as he retreats and walks away.
When presented with this situation, there are many options, each for different walks of life. The respectable person may just give the man some cash. The disrespectful person may walk away without any words or with words of profanity. The logical person has various thoughts of concern about the beggar's use of the money and maybe selfish concerns. The Christian, I believe, has yet another response.
It is with great regret and agony that I failed, along with the company of four other friends walking with the Lord, to respond to the beggar in the way that Christ has called me. I don't know what went through my head at the time, but I immediately retreated within myself. My heart was torn between complying with him and answering to my "logic."
Contemplating the situation the following morning, I know that I failed Christ, myself, and that man. What would I have said? "Let me tell you about what I rely on for food and thirst..." and then proceed to tell him about Christ. Would I have given him money after that? I should have. Or, should I just have demonstrated love by complying with his request and not even share the Good News in words, but rather through actions? In any case, Christ has called me to care for the poor. He's also called me to share His love.
"Why didn't you share my love with that man?" the Father asks me.
I have no good reply. If I would have at least told the man about my Lord, then I would know that he has heard the opportunity for more than quenching earthly hunger. Even if I hadn't given the beggar money, I would have shared an even better gift. Or, if I would have just given the man some money, or gotten food for him, then I would have been demonstrating His love, not just dictating my faith.
The harvest is ripe (John 4). He expects me to love others uncomfortably for His glory. I can't go back to what was, but I can pray for what is to come and know that the Spirit will give me the words to speak and the confidence to act in order that His temple may be utilized for His good.
