Lawlessness

I could talk about the constant verbal and physical abuse that some experienced last Tuesday night. But that could lead to the conclusion that this type of lawlessness was representative of the homeless community, which it is not. Sure we have times when there are disagreements between individuals, but it is not something that can not be resolved. I am reminded that this lawlessness is every where. My next door neighbor was robbed in her garage when she got home from work. I did not need to go downtown. I could have looked out the window for a lesson in lawlessness. Just watch the news on TV for another look at our society. The homeless are constantly on guard but we are not. They know for a fact that some resolve their differences with violence. We think everyone is basically a good person and we think it will never happen to us. But it does. The Bible teaches us that we are not good but bad. It is our nature so why would anyone be surprised that some would act up downtown. They act up everywhere. Laws can not change people’s hearts, only God can. That is why we go downtown. Not to feel good after feeding the homeless in a sterile environment. But to go downtown and preach the gospel which is only thing that will change a heart of a homeless person or a volunteer.
~Marc

Problems with Working

It is very difficult for most of the homeless to obtain any type of employment. Too many prospective employers want an address and home phone number which none have. So some of the choices available is working as a day laborer, usually through a company downtown, or looking for homes that they can do some yard work. Since most are not covered by any labor laws many are cheated out of their wages one way or another. At least, that is what I hear from most, although, I know there are two sides to every story.

Paul helps many out by hiring some to wash dishes at Streetside. This helps some to move up to a motel room, at least temporarily, but some will work and continue to stay on the street by choice. It is a real challenge to hire a homeless person because none have transportation which means providing a taxi service, which usually falls on one of the Streetside employees. Many don’t mind for a short period of time but it can be difficult if they are really busy. But if someone doesn’t provide that service, then you can be sure they can not be dependable even on good day.

Last Tuesday night a couple of the homeless had come up with a good idea to make some money. They decided to be street entertainers. According to them they had even acquired the proper permit from the city. So they started their enterprise by providing entertainment with the meal. They were very good, but at first the audience seemed to only focus on eating. But after playing a few songs, many did give them an ovation, although it was not standing.

So if you see them performing on the street maybe you could give them a couple of dollars. It is still work and they are providing a service that deserves some reward.
~Marc

Give and Take

The homeless have feelings too. Last Tuesday night one of the homeless shared with us that his best buddy died. Through his tears he related how they stuck together by sharing a “bunker” (sleeping quarters) and if the truth be known, also a bottle. I could tell that he had a touch of the same stuff when he came in. We talked and Paul shared with him that this should be a wake up call. The same thing could happen to him. Therefore, he should be ready. But I couldn’t see in his eyes any connection with him and the fate of his long lost buddy. He seemed oblivious to the obvious that Paul was trying to impress upon him. I think he just wanted some sympathy from someone who cared about him. But to change his life style, he was not ready for that.

Some of the homeless panhandle each Tuesday night among the volunteers. One finally was noticed by the pastor of the church and was banned for three months from entering the premises. She told one of the volunteers that she has to use parenting skills as much as skills learned in seminary to deal with the homeless. We certainly can relate with that.

One thing I have learned with dealing with the homeless is that many want to help. Of course, they can not come into the kitchen and start cooking (some have tried). That area is strictly for volunteers. However, they are welcome to help clean up which is a necessary job that most of the volunteers shy away from. So many times I try to use anyone that offers to help. It helps me and I thinks gives them a sense of accomplishment even if it is just sweeping the floor or taking out the trash. Most of these individuals never ask for anything other than to help out. Why not allow them to contribute each Tuesday night.

So we see each Tuesday some that give and others who take. The homeless are no different from the rest of society. I think that is why we can’t stereotype the homeless as lazy or alcoholics, even though some are, because we can see the same characteristics in our families, friends, and coworkers. The homeless are just people. They are all different. But one thing they have in common is a need for redemption from sin. Of course, that is why we go down each Tuesday night to share the good news for us and them.
~Marc