What Does It Take?

I decided to run some errands after work and drop by the mall. I wanted to get done and get back home before it grew too dark. In a city like Toronto, Canada, it is difficult to ignore the homeless crisis, and on my way to the local Shoppers Drug Mart, a man sitting on the ground asked for spare change. “I’m sorry,” I replied as I walked past him, barely making eye contact. While ringing up my items at the checkout counter, another man came up behind me with a few items and wanted to know if I would buy them for him. He had gone to every aisle asking for help. “No, I’m sorry,” I said again as I paid for my lip products, even though I could have helped him. He walked away, unable to get what he needed, and I went my way.

I continued on to Yorkdale Shopping Centre, one of the most luxurious malls in the city. While making my way through the subway tunnel, I saw a man sitting in the middle of the walkway, holding a red Tim Hortons coffee cup and begging for change. Like everyone else, I walked past him, but only a few steps inside the mall, I was convicted.

I turned and walked back hurriedly, but he was nowhere to be seen.

On the subway railing sat the empty Tim Hortons cup. I have played various scenarios in my mind over the years. Maybe someone gave him what he needed, and he left. Or maybe he was frustrated with being invisible and left hungry.

Whatever it was, I have always felt the man at the Yorkdale subway station was an angel, sent to put me to the test to see whether I would help someone in need.

In the span of three hours in one day, I missed three opportunities to make someone’s day a little easier, all because of my fear and prejudices—my preconceived ideas as to what each person would do with the money. None of my thoughts were about the person’s well-being. What does it take to be a true follower of Christ? It is more than going to church, returning tithes, and fellowshiping with other believers. It is about growing into the character of Christ and putting the needs of others before our own. It is about loving as He loves, making a difference in the lives of others in His name. Oh Lord, forgive us! May we have Your heart and share Your love with those in need, especially the poor.

Jonsaba C. Jabbi