Caring for Him

My 6’4” burly husband is a magnet for people in need. Ever since I can remember, hurting folks look to Mike for support, guidance, and sometimes even rescue. He always seems to capitalize on this gift as an opportunity to share God’s love. It’s one of the things I fell in love with when I first met him. 

A favorite memory that showcases Mike’s gift was a trip south we made to visit my son and daughter-in-law a few years ago. Downtown Nashville has some great sight-seeing and delicious cuisine, but the day we were there the streets were packed with tourists too. We were making our way through the crowds when an elderly homeless man slid up next to Mike, kept pace with him, and started a conversation. My kids and I followed and marveled that once again a person in need had my husband’s ear. I figured Mike would see this meeting as a quick coincidence, and we would all move on. After all, we were on vacation! 

Instead, Mike asked the stranger if he was hungry. Immediately the fellow shared his desire to eat a meal from a specific restaurant in the city. Before we could protest, the two of them were on their way, with the rest of us tagging close behind. We walked by countless reputable eateries, but it was evident this elderly man had a craving for a certain dish. I looked apologetically at my children, shaking my head. My son seemed to find it comical; I believe his wife was slightly concerned. Meanwhile, my husband and his new friend were oblivious, caught up in conversation like they had known each other for years and were celebrating their reunion. After what felt like two miles later, the homeless gentleman rejoiced to see his desired destination. But we were dismayed to see a long line out the door! I knew Mike would not just hand this fellow money. He’s seen too many of the homeless turn into addicts and sometimes die when cash was handed to them with good intentions. I was right; Mike got in line with his friend. About a half an hour later, we watched the older man thank Mike and make his way in another direction. He had a huge smile on his face and a large bag of food in his hand. It was one of the best sermons my husband ever preached, and it wasn’t even Sunday.

Jesus shared a lot of stories with His disciples about caring for the needy. In the New Testament, Jesus told His followers about a King who told his righteous servants, “For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.” The servants wondered. They couldn’t recall their King ever being in need, nor a time when they cared for him!  When they asked Jesus to explain, He said, “And the King will say, “I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!” (Matthew 25:35,36,40)

 I can become so caught up in my own life and desires that I often need a reminder to care for others. Most of the time, those gentle nudges come at the least convenient times. I’m especially challenged when I’m inclined to be selfish and put my needs first. I’m thankful for the stories that Jesus told that provoke my heart to do a u-turn. He reminds me that showing kindness to the needy is actually an opportunity to bless and serve Him, the King of Kings. And He’s so patient and loving with me, that sometimes He will even use Mike’s sermon on vacation to push me in the right direction. Do you need a nudge?