I wrote a short poem called “I saw Jesus a walking” and I met up with the same guy (Andy) a week later.

He was saying how he was no good to society and basically worhtless. I reminded him of the incident where he helped an old lady cross the street and told him how that had affected me, blessed me and challenged me. Then I said that in that moment he was the better man he was the more Christ-like. I explained how I would of helped her cross the first street then I would have said that I was in a hurry and wished her luck before striding away on more “important” business. Andy however saw the real need in her eyes and the way she talked and walked. He asked her where are you headed? She went on to explain that she wanted to get to the bus stop so she could get home. So Andy without hesitation said I’ll help you to the bus stop. This meant crossing another much busier street that at that time of day would be a complete nightmare. she could have used a crossing but at the fragile pace she walked it meant another 5-10 mins of walking.

They clutched arm in arm started to cross after waiting a couple of minutes only for a car to come as they got half way across. He boldly and with no shame held up his hand and proceeded across the rest of the road to the other side. Most people seemed pissed off with this and scowled behind there screens of apathy even as my eyes were being descaled of hoplessness. He was the better man that day and I knew it. I saw Jesus in his eyes and selfish good intentions in my own. A drunk, homeless man more Jesus than a church going man with all he needs on tap.This is not something to beat myself up over but hopefully a spiritual cleaner a de-scaler for the eyes of my heart.

Originally posted on http://tairngir.tumblr.com/page/93

Dec 1 2008