Faith Stories: God Sighting
Two men . . . Thomas and John . . . they could have been boyhood friends, playing ball after school and swimming together in the summertime. Maybe they attended the same church and married their childhood sweethearts. They could have grown into adults with successful careers and built strong marriages with happy children and grandchildren.
One, however, became the classic stereotype of a homeless man and comes into the Shepherd’s Market regularly. Thomas’ physical appearance is appalling and his personal hygiene makes it unpleasant for those around him. He has ridden his bike again and expects to somehow load it with all of his food bags and peddle home. Home is now an old house which is far better than the homeless condition in which he once lived. Thomas has severe medical issues, psychological problems, a failed marriage and two children.
The other man, John, works regularly at the Shepherd’s Market. He fits one of the other stereotypes our culture has created. He is successful, well-respected, and he has a large and loving family. John is healthy, active, and leads the life of a true Christian man. Spending many hours weekly at the market, John mingles comfortably among the clients as he has come to know many of their stories.
God was sighted in action that day! Of course, John would not allow Thomas to try to put all of those groceries on his bike. He simply took a break, loaded all of Thomas’ groceries plus his bike onto his truck and took him home. John did what few people would do! He did not judge Thomas, blaming him for his misfortunes, but instead, he acted selflessly in helping a fellow human being.
God sightings are common at The Shepherd’s Market!