Tea In A Takeaway Cup...

I found it interesting how often he brought up the topics about the Catholic and the Christian Church. It was interesting how he noticed that Christians were the only ones who bothered to visit the unsheltered. Tonight, he seemed genuinely pleased and more comfortable with us. He spoke about the same topics and repeated stories that became clearer each time he told it. The years lined in his face seemed to fade away as he sipped his sweetened tea.

He spoke of his 13 years unsheltered. Most would blame it on their bad luck. But he was thankful. Thankful for coincidences. He remembered the times when hunger pangs would steal his sleep, but somehow his needs would be met. Someone would leave Nasi Lemak with him. Or a packet of Kopi. I think God loves him more than he knows.

He was conflicted when it came to religion. He praised Christianity and its good works. And yet spoke of those who converted from his religion to Christianity as weak and foolish. They were usually drug addicts and ex-convicts. He spoke of the generosity of pastors and priests in the respective churches. He often brought other unsheltered friends to get handouts. But he himself could not step into a church. Was it fear? Or tradition? I think it was the awe of God. I think he could not bring himself to come close to God.

I believe we are God's response. We are to bring Love to him. The presence of God in the form of tea in a takeaway cup. He was smiling when we walked back to his regular spot. I could see peace on his face. This may not be evangelism as we know it. This is baptism into the presence of God.