“Do you have any shoes?”
I was asked that when greeting a guest today at HRC. I looked over at our shoe closet, knowing my friends at Fleet Feet had just donated a bunch of shoes and boots last Friday, and I was hoping we still had some left in his size.
We didn’t.
This is a regular occurrence in this work. People are in need. We look to see if we can meet that need. Often we can, thanks to so many people helping keep our shelves stocked. Other times, the right thing or the right size just is not there.
My brain starts moving. This man is sleeping outside. His shoes are hanging on by a thread. I think through options. Another shoe store. A clothing closet referral. A cheap pair ordered online. All possible. None immediate.
He still had a 3+ mile walk back to where he sleeps. Holes in his shoes. A low of 27 tonight.
This is the kind of hospitality I am trying to practice. Not transactional. Not measured. Not convenient. The kind written about in Romans 12, where hospitality is something we are told to pursue. To chase. To actively seek out. Especially when it costs something and cannot be repaid.
I looked down at my shoes and asked him what size he wears. Same size. I asked if he would like my shoes. They are cushioned Hoka running shoes. They fit his need well. So I took them off and gave them to him. He was grateful. The need in front of me was met.
I lost a pair of running shoes today. I gained the chance to practice hospitality.
In a world that feels like it has amnesia about one of our greatest callings, loving one another, I hope I get the opportunity every day to practice this kind of hospitality, so it never runs dry in me.
My hope is that this work helps you see our communities, our neighbors, with a perspective of “What can I do?” We desperately need to run toward hospitality, because hate abounds around every corner, and the only action that can counteract these times is intentional love.
Much love, my friends.
Brett