I have hesitated to mention some of the things that the Big Guy encounters in his job as a Ministry Director. I’m afraid that, with all the negativity towards Christianity, people might use these tales as fodder for anti-religion rants. But those of you who are able to distinguish human flaws from perceived flaws in our beliefs might be interested to hear some of the things the Big Guy deals with.
A few weeks ago at the homeless shelter, he met Walter, an elderly black man who was looking for a way to get back to Sacramento. BG finally found a cheap Amtrack fare and asked Walter to come up with part of the money and he’d pick up the rest. The ticket was purchased for a Friday 2pm departure. But the next day, the Amtrack ticket agent called BG. Walter was there, and asking for a cash refund on the ticket. Walter told BG that he needed the money and wasn’t leaving, so BG cancelled the ticket.
After several other phone calls, Walter decided he wanted to go home, and gave up asking for the money. But the special fare was not available anymore. He got ticket agents and supervisors on the line to approve a special deal for Walter, which they did once they heard the situation. They were impressed with his efforts and sincere desire to help. They said they’d never had so many calls about one passenger before!
Walter never showed up for the train. The Big Guy may never find out what happened to him, but he knows that he’s impacted anonymous ticket agents and Amtrack supervisors. Who knows what the ripple effect of his ministry will be?
11 comments
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October 18, 2007 at 2:00 pm
Ahna
That is such a tough situation to be in. I know from what you write, that Big Guy has a huge heart. I think that is one of the most difficult things – to know when and how to help someone who obviously needs the help. I have been asked for money and help on so many occasions, I just don’t know what to think or do. I usually err on the side of being – what some might call – overly generous. I’d rather help than let someone suffer because I was too greedy.
Kudos to BG and kudos to you for writing about this. It will be interesting to see what the ripple effect is.
October 18, 2007 at 2:38 pm
leian
I also have trouble knowing when to give and when to be wise about the person asking for help. I mean, when I see someone in the street asking for money, I struggle with the idea that they may buy drugs or something with the money. God says to give without asking, so I just pray that God will do something good with what I offer.
October 18, 2007 at 2:55 pm
angelawd
The Big Guy struggles with generosity and wisdom, too. He sometimes sees the same people going from church to church asking for help. And sometimes those people really need support from many sources. Other times, they are playing the system. He never knows what he’s going to get, so he tries to evaluate and make policies that help more than they restrict. He has a lot of really heartwarming stories and those successes always put some bounce in his step.
One thing that’s really a blessing is there is such a fantastic network in this area for charities, safe houses, food pantries, immunization clinics, job assistance, etc. that BG has many things to offer people when they come with a problem or need counseling. And people are always donating gas and grocery cards, money for bus passes, etc.
October 18, 2007 at 2:59 pm
angelawd
And whew, I’m so glad to read these kinds of comments. I worried I’d get mail saying, “See, this is why I don’t help beggars.”
October 18, 2007 at 7:21 pm
Jenny
I know how it feels dealing with homeless people. I went over to Los Angeles with my family and walking through the streets, there were so much more homeless people than I’d ever seen, or expected to be there. I wanted to give them all money, but then I wondered what they would do with it. Of course, I didn’t have enough money to give them all some, as it would have been a ridiculous amount of money if I gave them all even five dollars, but I remember breaking down and crying because I just wanted to help them all and I knew I couldn’t. I’ve never felt anything worse than feeling helpless, and well, good luck with all.
October 19, 2007 at 2:41 pm
angelawd
I know, Jenny, it’s really sad. I always feel like giving people everything I have and then making them come home with me! Sometimes it’s hard knowing you can’t help the whole world.
I get especially sad when it goes below freezing in Chicago, and I know some people haven’t found a shelter.
October 19, 2007 at 7:45 pm
Sue
I struggle with what the right thing to do is as well. I’m like the other commenters I think.
October 22, 2007 at 10:59 am
Dooley
Homelessness is a huge and systemic problem in this country. I often feel much like Ahna (above) “… I just don’t know what to think or do.” Government agencies, private agencies, churches, and individuals do a great job of helping to put a ‘band-aid’ on the problems. What we don’t do a good job of is going ‘upstream’ to the source of the problems. Many of the needy and homeless are struggling with mental illness, yet states have cut back on mental health assistance and facilites. There is not enough affordable housing in this country, especially in the rich suburban areas. There are not enough jobs that pay over the minimum wage to the level of a true living wage. While we help provide band-aids, let’s get to work on the upstream problems as well!
October 22, 2007 at 2:42 pm
angelawd
I think you’re so right, Dooley! Thanks for sharing your perspective on the upstream problems. I’d like to find some ways to help out those issues.
October 22, 2007 at 4:36 pm
Leian
I guess I haven’t thought about the problems that lead to homelessness. I get stuck on the person right in front of me who needs (maybe) a meal. Dooley, I’m glad you reminded me of the other issues.
January 16, 2010 at 3:45 pm
Christian Carnival CXCV
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