My second shift at The Mustard Seed was last night - I had to be up early this morning so I didn't stay up to post when I returned home. It was another fantastic evening - I handed out 365 plates, and recognized a handful of people that came through, although there were a lot of new people. My friend with the puzzle was not there last night, but maybe I'll see him again one of these weeks. Some of the people smiled genuinely as I handed them their plates, and even though I don't know all of their stories, part of their story is definitely the fact that they need to come for a free meal, whether they have money to buy groceries or not, the need for a free meal exists. And for that, I am eternally greatful to The One who sent me to do His service.
I'm thinking about them a lot again today - the young girl with her boyfriend who could hardly walk, and how they did last night under their blanket, for they were homeless - the young deaf man who signed "Thank you" every time I gave him something, but who asked to be escorted out of the building due to an altercation that occurred inside, as he feared for his safety - the other young man involved in the altercation, the one who loved lasagna (so he told me last week), and gave me a flyer promoting his new business - the guy with a mohawk who sang a Stone Temple Pilots karaoke song - I wonder what they are all doing today.
The time went so fast, and soon it was 1000, and I didn't want the evening to end. What a joy it is to serve, and to receive smiles, just for being nice to someone who maybe has had a rough day. I hope that I feel this way every time I go, but it seems like those who have served for a while aren't quite as enthusiastic as I am. I will pray each time I drive the long drive into the inner city that I will serve with the same joy as I have this past few weeks.
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