UNDER THE OVERPASS

 

What an amazing book… If you haven’t read this book, I strongly suggest it! I am not sure who the author is because I don’t have the book right beside me.. but I am sure anyone who is interested and looks it up on Google… You will find the author!

So this book is about two young Christian men who choose to live in 5 different major cities across the United States as homeless men. The story is told by one of the guys from his point of view throughout the whole journey. The purpose of their journey was to better understand the life of our brothers and sisters stuck in the homeless lifestyle. A view from the American side of homelessness... and in my eyes a wakeup call to Americans!!!

The book tells stories of churches kicking these two guys off of their property, out of their buildings, and down the street because of their unapproachable appearance, smelly clothes, and numerous other ridiculous reasons. THE CHURCH kicking those who desire to be in such a building…. What are we saying as Christians??? Isn’t this the place where we are ALL welcomed!? It should be at least. Sadly, I can say I have fallen under the group that has often overlooked the homeless people in our nation. It is easy to walk by people on the streets without noticing their state of being or asking what they need. It may just be a hug – Quit being selfish!

I am glad this book has opened my eyes to my selfishness… many homeless people do not need loads of money or you to buy them brand new items. Some just need you to get them a meal because they haven’t eaten in days or need you to give them a pair of shoes that you hate (that has sat in your closet for months) because they are without shoes and their soles of their feet are busted up. Both situations were true stories from the book… both of which many people walked by or drove by ignoring a simple situation that could be easily fixed.

The Lord definitely spoke to me during my time of reading… He showed me the love of Christ isn’t only shown through our service in places we love to be, but also places where we often do not go. Places in which we can reach out to those who just need people, a little food, or encouragement in life. Our desire to be intentional with HIS people (everyone) should be one of the most important aspects of our Christian life.

If you haven’t read my blog about San Marcos... please do. I wrote about a sweet man Cassidy that the Lord blessed me with on that trip. I was in tears as the Holy Spirit spoke to me and allowed me to take the message of this book and put it into practice with my new friend. I can definitely say I will never be the same and hope that I will never overlook my brothers and sisters who live under the overpass.

Sweet  friends. I encourage you today to find someone who needs some help. Maybe you are not financially well off (most of us are not), but praise be to the Lord who provides ALL we need. Your faith in reaching out to those in need will be multiplied and you will see the Lord work through your efforts!!! To the homeless people in your area that you help… Praise be to HIM as you reach out to their sweet souls! We are called to love and serve EVERYONE!!!