What Is Your Purpose?
I love downtown Indy. Going there brings back one of my favorite memories from my childhood. I remember my parents taking me there at Christmastime – when I was about 5 or 6 years old (I’m guessing). We walked around to see the lights, the decorated store windows, and then listened to a choir sing Christmas songs – somewhere on the circle. My favorite part was getting some hot chocolate with lots of miniature marshmallows. A memory I will never forget. So simple, yet so meaningful – and it barely cost a dime.
After last evening, I was reminded that not everyone gets to create such wonderful memories with their family. Although mine are few, I am so thankful for the ones I have that made me feel special and loved.
We went to the I.U. men’s basketball game yesterday. When we were walking back to our car after the game, I noticed a pile of blankets on the sidewalk. I confess that I had to look away when I realized that the pile of blankets was there to help keep someone warm for the night. When I noticed a gentleman sitting close by the pile, I pretended to look at something that was on the other side of the street – as if THAT would somehow make it easier to pass him by. That’s when I heard his voice. He didn’t ask for money, but said “Merry Christmas”. Hearing those words from a homeless man touched my heart in a way I can’t explain. I managed to look at him – but our eyes met for only a moment. I told him “Merry Christmas”, and then he looked down. I don’t think my words have ever felt so empty. A man who apparently has nothing gave me one of the best presents of all – my purpose.
Matthew 25:35-40 “For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’ “Then these righteous ones will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ “And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’
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