My Personal Space...Stay out of it

Location: Downtown Chattanooga

As I parked the car I noticed two guys that were trying to get my attention. I opened up the door and tried to step out of the car but they met me at the door before I had two feet on the ground. One of the guys asked for some money and told me they were homeless. I was feeling a little cramped for personal space and somewhat scared because they came up so close, so quickly.

I told them “Why don’t you guys step back to the sidewalk and let’s have a talk first”

They both politely did so I began to witness to them both. Theo and Dave were both nice guys but Dave wanting to keep justifying himself by saying that God will forgive you if you just ask him. So I asked him, “Would a good judge just forgive someone because they asked him?” He answered “Nope, but God is more forgiving than a human judge”.

“True.” I said, but “He is far more harsh and true than any human judge right?”

“You’re right.” He told me.

“So should God forgive someone just for asking? What if this guy killed your mother? Would it be ok then?” He still didn’t budge. Finally after what felt like forever he admitted that you have to repent and trust the Savior. I hope he believed that and wasn’t just agreeing to shut me up.

After our chat I agreed to bring them a small supply of groceries and a few bucks to buy them a meal or two. Dave kept asking me for money to stay at a hotel for the night but I just didn’t have it. I let him know that I would do all that I can to help. Maybe I can point out some homeless shelters for these guys. Our church works closely with some.

Next I met with Reginald at the bus stop. It was a good talk. He was a straight shooter. I’ve learned that in witnessing it is best to try to adapt to a person’s countance as the talk. Is they are strong willed, I give it right back to them (lovingly of course). If they are shy and timid then I try to talk softly and gently with them.

So after I presented the law I asked Reginald, “What are you going to do on Judgment Day?”

“I don’t know” he said, “I guess just beg and plead.”

I told him that it would be too late then and he could do something about it now. It is true that the Law indeed shuts the mouth and keeps people from justifying themselves.

There is more but those two are the best ones of the morning. I was also able to pass out a bit of Gospel tracts too. I am constantly amazed at how God uses street ministry to seek those that would never find their way into a church. I thank God for what He has done today.