On The Inner Life on Relevant Radio, a listener named Cynthia calls in to share her method for doing ministry to the homeless in Austin and San Antonio. She often encounters people in desperate and hopeless situations. In an effort to brighten their day, she asks, “Do you believe that Jesus is king?” When they say yes, she smiles: If Jesus is King, “that would make you a prince or a princess, right?”
That moment of laughter and levity opens a door to a deeper truth: every person is a beloved child of God. Cynthia lamented the unwarranted stigma against our homeless brothers and sisters in Christ, and encouraged people to minister to these people who need community and relationship more than most.
Fr. Marcel Taillon agreed, offering a simple suggestion. Give alms, yes, but go further. Ask them, “What’s your name?” and “Can I say a prayer for you today?” God knows their name, and hearing it spoken with respect can begin to restore dignity.
He challenged listeners who keep their distance: “We got to get out.” Visit a shelter. Volunteer with your kids. Meet someone face-to-face. “The poor always bless us,” he said, reminding us that Jesus promises He will give us 100 times back that which we freely give to the least of His brothers and sisters.
“We should meet Jesus in two places,” he said: “in the tabernacle in the Eucharist, and then the poor.” Ask the Lord for the eyes of faith in both, so that you can recognize Christ, and let that recognition change how you love.
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