It's Friday night and Outreach time at the Union Gospel Mission. The truck is loaded with food and clothing essentials. The van is full this Friday of those who will serve. Days are shorter now, nights are becoming colder. and the threat of rain is evident. I've added an extra layer of clothes and wool socks. One those helping to serve is a young man just released from prison. The truck and van enter the alley behind the House of Hope and is greeted by a long line of those seeking a warm meal. Addiction has no prejudice, they are young and old, from nearly every ethnic background. A young couple pushing a stroller with a child, an elderly woman who needs assistance, some appear to be be teenagers, all waiting patiently,
The food is placed on the tables, the barbecue started. hot soup, sandwiches and fruit. Those that come to serve gather for a time of prayer, asking God's blessing on the food and those who are to receive it. The line begins to move, always orderly, no pushing, no shoving, the line seems almost endless this evening. One in line is a former UGM resident, he is urged to return and says he might.
As it begins to rain, a simple prayer asking God to withhold the rain and He does.
A woman asks for a warmer coat and is given one, she then offers to give back her lighter coat in exchange. The man with the banjo who comes every Friday night sets up to play and is joined by one of our own in singing of God''s grace.
God have we touched a life of one of those you want to call your own?
We gather around to share about the night and how we were able to minister in the name of Christ.
I feel blessed and am now considered one of the team, as the men now aim some of their jokes at me. I come home to my warm home and bed, but many will spend the night under the freeway, on a door step, near a trash cart.
I am reminded of the Kris Kristofferson song, "Why me Lord?" What I ever done to deserve even one of the pleasures I've known. Tell me Lord, what did I ever do, that was worth lovin' you, for the kindness you've shown. Try me Lord if think there's a way I can try to repay all I've taken from you.
So another Friday night on the streets and alleys of Spokane.
