Reaching out to those in need

On Monday, February 6th, I was at Safeway to get cookies because it was my turn to bring snacks to WHE. I got out of my car and a young man approached me. He said his name was Brandon. He turned 20 a few days ago. He was just released out of Providence hospital with an ear infection. He doesn't have a place to live or a job. He had been staying in a room with a friend, but the "friend" took his stuff and bolted. All this had happened within the last few days. I asked him how I can help him. He told me if I could, if he could have a little money towards staying at a motel for the night. I could tell he was being honest. I had him follow me into Safeway. I asked him how much a motel is. I asked him if he has a religious affiliation and he doesn't. So I took it as a missionary opportunity. Told him a little about the church. Gave him the name, address, and when service begins. He told me he's happy to be a part of any church. Gave him some money for a couple nights at a motel and food, and said a prayer for him. He told me that I'm the nicest person he's come across and he gave me a hug, then we parted ways. I'd like to think that's what He would do if He was in the same situation. 


Unfortunately, I didn't see him at church. I hope he's doing alright and that things turn around for him.

Thinking back on it, I realized I've changed a lot. If the same happened a year ago, I would have refused to help him  , would have rushed into the store hoping for him to be gone by the time I left, and wouldn't have given him a second thought. I wouldn't have seen him as a young man needing help, I would have seen him as a nuisance. I'm so glad that I'm not like that anymore.