The least of these brothers of mine...

Today was one of the most incredible, amazing, humbling days of my life. I was involved in "Project Homeless Connect"... a project that is part of a plan to eliminate the homelessness problem in Bellingham and Whatcom County. The eye clinic where I work was involved in the project, as our office manager was co-chair for the event. We had dental care, foot care, pregnancy testing, HIV testing, and eye exams; as well as help with nutrition, mental health care, chemical dependency care, and even veterinary care (many homeless people have pets). It was astounding to see how many people showed up for help. The stereotype that I've long held as the "typical" homeless person was shattered... I've always assumed that homeless people were dirty, smelly, alcoholic/drug addicts who were looking for a handout. I was so wrong. Families with small children, people who were as clean as you and me, and men who looked like they just left the office came in, desperate for assistance. One guest, a man in his early 50's just sat and cried after we finished his eye exam. He couldn't believe that we would do this "for free". Some people avoided all eye contact, they seemed to be ashamed that they needed help from us. Others were overjoyed and couldn't stop thanking us for being there. Today was life changing. I was so humbled to be part of something so much bigger than myself. God never fails to remind me of how completely and overwhelmingly blessed I am. 

"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'" Matthew 25:37-40