Hidden Gentleman

I sat in the square downtown enjoying some sunshine and a good book among a large crowd when he appeared out of nowhere. 

" I want to meet you". He stated, backpack slung over his shoulder, sleeping bag in hand, smoke hanging from his mouth like an accessory. So we did, with arms extended out to each other for a shake, we briefly spoke. After a simple nod he walked away. I returned to my book, heart warmed in the random kindness of it all. To my surprise he backtracked asked to sit, and proceeded to tell me there were things on his mind he needed to talk about. He spoke of unimaginable grief, a tragedy, a memory of a loved one in his life and a shocking ending. He was weighted by a deep sense of guilt and shame for his inability to protect and the sense of failure as a man. As he spoke  pain came through strongly  his shoulders slumped and he clasped his rough, swollen hands together. We spoke of Jesus, and I asked if he would be comfortable if we prayed for the heavy burden he carries. " Hold on, I can't smoke and pray, this is a holy moment." He mumbled stomping out his cigarette. 

It truly was a holy moment. With head bowed low over folded hands, eyes squeezed tightly shut, he nodded and agreed with my prayer. As the words of his true identity as a man created by God, and the hope and freedom found in Christ was spoken, It was incredible to watch the acceptance of truth wash over his face. The troubled features of a passive, burdened man was gone, the man I was looking at in this moment was 

peaceful and dignified.

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" Hello sister". He calls out sheepishly from the little crate he perches on outside the flower shop panning. This man has been in my life for a long time, and I am excited and surprised to run into him unexpectedly. His speech is a string of curses through a captivating smile and deep set eyes. His special heart is something easily missed if you are a passerby, and make assumptions solely on his appearance, and  random outbursts. This man has a passion for justice and mercy. He is a defender of the defenseless on the street. He is quick to become violent towards those hurting the weak. He is a man who will invite you to sit,  take off his coat, lay it on the ground to fashion a cozy clean spot for you. Yet these things are overlooked as this man thinks he is nothing, his experiences of ridicule, mistreatment,and countless shames cloud his vision.

I am often burdened for the gentleman I meet on the street. Such pain, failure and lies covering up their true identity as sons, created and loved by God their heavenly father, made in his image. These men need to know their worth, need to know there is peace for guilt, forgiveness for mistakes, restoration and healing in identity, redemption in what seems hopeless, and a relationship with Christ Jesus. Please pray for the countless gentleman who find themselves on the street.