Thursday, October 31, 2013

Cranky and Unappreciative?

 



 John 21:15-17

Jesus Reinstates Peter

15 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”
“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”
16 Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”
17 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Feed my sheep."

When I began serving at a homeless shelter, I assumed the guests would be appreciative. But several complained about the menu, and others snatched their plates in silence.
 Most met my smile with sideways glances that spoke of wariness and distrust. I thought angrily, How dare they treat me this way! They don’t even know me.





 Then I heard God speaking through my frustration: “Jill, do you know them?” The next week I began to actually sit and eat with the guests. I asked, “How are you?” and took the time to listen — not only to what was said but also to what was not said. I heard the sadness in the tone of voice, observed the forced smile, and was touched by the eyes glassy with tears. I learned names and heard stories. Those I once saw only as grouchy and ungrateful became sisters and brothers — each with their own unique pains of the past, fears of the present, and hopes for the future.

  In our reading for today, Jesus gave Peter some very specific directions about showing his love for Christ by serving others: “Feed my lambs . . . Tend my sheep.” Even those who at first seem cranky and unappreciative, we are also called to feed and to tend.

Thought for the Day

Serving in Christ’s name requires building relationships.

Prayer

Dear God, help us discover how we might tend to the physical and spiritual needs of the people around us. Amen.
Prayer focus  Those who serve the homeless
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