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Today was my day off. I usually try to take Fridays off, at least sometimes. It was noontime and I decided to make a quick stop by the church to pick up my mail. I was in and out of the building in a minute. Just as I was about to get in my car a young man (who looked like he had been sleeping in his clothes) approached me on the street and asked if he could take a shower at the church. He said, “I haven’t had a shower in several days.”  ”Jordan is my name,” he said, “and I am from Maine.” “Jordan,” I responded, “the shower facilty is closed today. But if you walk around to the side entrance of the church there will be a lady at the front desk who can provide you information about showers and clean clothes.” I gave him my business card, he thanked me and went on his way. I got in my car and drove away, thankful to be back in my air-conditioned car. I drove about two blocks with Jordan still on my mind. I wondered about his life, what his childhood was like, and the things that may have brought him to his current situation.

Then, I made a u-turn and drove back to the church. Luckily, I caught Jordan just as he was leaving the church with a community ministry brochure in his hand. I pulled up beside him and asked, “Did you get the information you needed about a shower and clothes?”  ”Yes,” he said. “I will be back here at 10 a.m. in the morning.” “Great!” I said. And asked, “So, where are you headed now?”  ”Nowhere,” Jordan responded. “Just walking.” “Have you had lunch?” I asked. “Nope, he responded. “Would you like to have lunch?” I responded. “Sure, and he hopped in my car! I took him to one of my favorite places—Bandito’s Mexican Restaurant.

After spending an hour together at lunch I learned much more about Jordan. Jordan is 21 years old and loves organic food. He hopes to have a garden someday. He graduated from high school and is a certified electrician. He loves to read books on psycology and especially enjoys reading the works of Carl Jung. During his childhhod he was physically abused and has spent many years in a community home. I felt some sadness from Jordan as he shared about some of his family relationships. For the last several years Jordan has been walking. He has traveled all over the United States and as far west as Seattle. Jordan says he feels free. He sleeps wherever he can and seems to enjoy his life of traveling by foot. He says some people call him a hobo.  But Jordan doesn’t mind. He says he is on a mission—to love everyone he meets. So, Jordan keeps walking and meeting people. Who knows where he will show up next? Or, who might be his next new friend? It happened to me today. It might be you next week!

Several months ago our Pastor, Jim Somerville, and I were riding in a car together when he noticed a homeless man walking down the street (perhaps one of the many people dependent on our church for food and clothing). Jim pointed to the man and said, “Look Ralph! There goes one of God’s favorite people.”  Yes, indeed. He loves all His children. I bet you are one of His favorites, too!

May grace happen to you!

Ralph Starling

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