I had read the announcement in our church’s bulletin many times: Ministry at the Lee Hotel every Tuesday night. The Lee Hotel had been converted into a home for men and women who were one step away from
homelessness. Local churches brought meals to encourage the residents who fought poverty, alcoholism, drug addiction, and depression.
A few weeks before Thanksgiving, a friend and I decided it was our turn. We came to the Lee Hotel with lasagna, fried chicken, and potato salad–simple fare. The residents thought we had served a gourmet meal.
A man with a long greasy ponytail and several missing teeth approached me. He smelled of alcohol. I cringed. I wanted to excuse myself politely. He wanted to talk.
“Thank you for bringing the food. It’s the only hot meal I get each week.” His eyes filled with tears. “I know God loves me when people like you come here.”
His comments stopped me in my tracks. How much easier it had been for me to send a check to support starving children half a world away. Looking directly into the hungry eyes of someone who lived in the next town proved much more difficult.
I left the Lee Hotel with a smile that night — and the determination to come again. The blessing I received was far greater than what I had given, reminding me of a verse from Proverbs:
Your own soul is nourished when you are kind. Proverbs 11:17
The experience at the Lee Hotel inspired me to pray: Lord, help me be a willing giver to those physically and spiritually in need.
On Giving Tuesday or any day, there are numerous ways we can give to others in need. Samaritan’s Purse is one of my favorite ministries to support. You can learn more here: samaritanspurse.org
