Terry

By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also be guided by the Spirit. Galatians 5:22-25

I had a wonderful conversation with an older gentleman a few years back. His name was Terry and his faith journey was fascinating to me. “I believe that prayer is the most powerful thing I can do in my life,” he said. We talked for a while about faith, prayer and living a life led by the Spirit. Like many 64 year olds, he’s excited that his Social Security benefits will kick in next year.

This was the same kind of conversation I’ve had with numerous folks of that age. But Terry had this confidence and peace in his eyes that I rarely see in anyone. Especially considering that Terry is homeless and living on the streets of downtown Memphis.

We had this conversation in a parking lot. I had just given him a blanket, shoes, 2 clean shirts plus underwear and socks from our clothes closet. How humiliating it must be to beg for such necessities? And then to have a woman pastor give you clean underwear? But Terry responded to the awkward moment by sharing his faith and his hopes for the future. I don’t know why he’s on the streets, but I know that the Spirit guides Terry. The fruit of the Spirit was evident in him. Though he is desperately poor by the world’s standards, he has a peace that passes all understanding. May you also be guided by the Holy Spirit through all joys and troubles of this life.

See you Sunday!
Missy