To all who receive…
Today I received one of those story emails…telling of a woman who purchased a meal in McDonalds for two homeless men. Then it told me to “send it back” so my guardian angel will care for me…or something like this. I’m not making fun, really. I just don’t believe in “gimicks”…and I really don’t know if the story is true or not. But, this one strikes me…and I hope you will understand why. This is a true story! 
We have been living in Romania now for just over 4 years. I have fed the street boys from my box of pizza, I have given my Pepsi or a few coins to children as they beg at my car window at a stop light (they cannot go home until they have received a certain amount of money), I have drank coffee in a one room shack, I have given bread and food from my shelves to people who stop by our house… I don’t say any of this to make you think well of me…for there have been many times…many times…I am sure, that I have missed the opportunity to minister because I was too busy…or grumpy…or selfish…or whatever. For this, I am truly sorry. However, this week, I received a tremendous blessing…
For several months now, a very poor gypsy man, woman and her sister have been attending our church. They brought their baby to our church for dedication. Why to us? Because we are one of the few churches in town where the gypsies know they are welcome. They are so poor and from any standpoint, unkempt. They literally have no money and they cook outside over an open fire. One of our church leaders, who is very experienced in working with families such as this, as been conversing with them and trying to help as we are able. Another lady and I have attempted to share food with them…but interestingly they were absent on the days we had food for them. About one month ago, child protection removed the child from their home. I remember seeing the broken heart on the face of the mother. My heart just ached for her. Every Sunday, they arrive at church early and sit in the second row…not too far from where I stand to sing on the worship team. Weekly, I am reminded of the smell of desperate poverty as I shake their hands, speak with them, and even as I breathe to sing. My practice has always been to look into the eyes of the congregation and smile as I sing in order to help draw them into the spirit of worship and impart God’s love to them…and as I look at this family…the ladies always look back at me and smile deeply.
This week, I was walking in town with a young friend as we just finished a coffee together. We were conversing while walking when suddenly I heard a strong and vibrant “BUNA!” (“HI”!)… I looked over to see this gypsy family walking together. They saluted me openly and kindly…and the man gave a specific greeting of respect (“sarut mana” meaning “I kiss your hand”). Those around us looked intently to see what I would do and what the family would do. I smiled warmly and returned the greeting. The family didn’t stop me and ask for money or food (which is what everyone else expected of this gypsy family to a “rich” American)…they just wanted to greet me…that was all…that was ALL. It struck me that this family didn’t see me as an opportunity…but rather there was an exchange of mutual respect and affirmation…something which those around me rarely saw in a situation such as this. I desire to help this family in healthy ways as we are able and as God directs. But in all ways, I desire for them to see and feel respect and affirmation…to see and feel God’s love…something they rarely see or feel.
How can you help, in healthy ways, a family/person in need? (If you can’t see how, then take a step out of your place of comfort. I am sure you won’t have to go far.) How can you show love, respect and affirmation to someone who rarely feels it? It will not only encourage them and grow you…but it will also speak volumes to those around you!
just my thoughts… AND…God sends His angels to watch over us always!
There are always ways to affirm those around us. I have developed a friendship with a recovering alcoholic who attends church when her bipolar condition allows.
She has so many problems, but I can see the love of God shining from her face as we sing together in church.
Our church has a Secret Sisters program during the year and I have been sending her anonymous $10s or $20 every few months.
Keep looking at the heart.
Donna
Posted a comment on Skype for you.
I am definitely cooking for IHN this March.