Mercy...

I met Paul last Thursday night when Barnabas Project was open for shopping and community gathering time. It was a gorgeous night, with mild temperatures throughout the evening. Folks filed in and out during our open hours and Paul was one of the first to arrive. Paul did some shopping and then paused to chat a while. I asked how his day had been.

"Today has been hard," Paul said.

"How so?" I asked.

"Well, I'm homeless and I was kicked out of the city mission this week," Paul explained as he gazed outward.

I could tell it troubled him and even sensed grief in his soul as he told his story. "I'm sorry to hear that." I replied, and silence followed. We both looked at the ground.

I remembered the words of Becca Stevens, founder of Thistle Farms and her work with women from the streets, living lives of addiction and prostitution. Becca says that sometimes we just need some mercy when we are hurting.

Who was giving Paul mercy?

"Paul," I said, "would you like some coffee?"

"You have coffee?" Paul replied.

"Yes," I replied. "Help yourself to a cup." And I pointed to the coffee and cookies.

Paul almost sprinted over to the pot of coffee goodness! After he'd poured himself a cup, he returned to his seat by me. He had the biggest smile on his face as he sipped away.

Mercy is goodness, I thought to myself. Paul finished his coffee and went on his way.

You'd think the story would end there, but it doesn't.

On Saturday morning, on my way back to Barnabas, I saw Paul walking on the street near downtown. I recognized him from behind and then looking in my rear view mirror, I saw his face. Indeed, it was Paul.

Sometimes I think coffee with a friend is the third sacrament. A sacrament is God's word combined with a physical element. A cup of coffee, and a bit of shared mercy helped me get to know Paul. It was almost sacramental. Like how you feel when you receive communion. Sins are forgiven, there is a rest in the journey, love is restored and we see each other as beloved children of God.

Pray for the Barnabas project, pray for Paul, and experience mercy.

Peace,
Pastor Rhonda