" I use drugs... You use Jesus"

We sat together outside of mcdonalds on bloor street downtown.
Fluffy hair tucked under a toque, styrofoam cup in hand for change.
Cigarette tucked loosely between his engaging smile.

His genuine kindness, and his gentle laid back attitude made him comfortable to be around.

He freely shared bits and pieces of his story. I appreciated his authenticity, and consistency in checking in with me every so often to make sure I was tracking with him. 

Lost childhood, jail in his teen years, unhealthy role models and influences, strongholds of drugs and alcohol in his life. He had seen much darkness.

I asked him what he felt like when he was on drugs. He seemed to enjoy my innocence, and switched into teaching mode careful to make it relatable for me kindly.

He described the feelings as that of sinking into a hot bubble bath in an atmosphere of candles lit. A feeling of escape, letting go, peace and comfort.

He went a step further. Relating it to the feeling I would experience being in the presence of God. At peace.

" We use different mediums to get that feeling. I use drugs you use Jesus". He stated nonchalantly.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    This man is searching. It was clear through our whole conversation. He was wrestling, confused, and unsure.
He clearly understood me as I shared my faith, and the hope that I have found in Christ, he seemed happy that I had found what I was looking for. 

He just couldn't get there for himself.

Please pray for him, and so many like him on the streets in Toronto. People who are using other
 " mediums"to fill that emptiness, and meet their needs. May they come to see that Jesus is what they really need.