I wonder, if we were homeless, what would we be singing?

Sunday January 22, 2023

“I wonder, if we were homeless, what would we be singing?”

This week we did well with the folks on the street. We met 50 people, mostly one at a time or in small groups. We had an especially beautiful experience with an older man named George. He wears thick glasses and has serious problems with his feet. George pushes a shopping cart as much for balance as to carry his belongings. As he made his way along, we were concerned he would fall as he struggled to maneuver his cart on the broken sidewalk. George recognized us immediately. Introducing us to his friend, he said,“This is Tony! We love you guys because you really care.”He then went on to tell us, “We were just singing,‘I CAN ONLY IMAGINE’

Do you remember that one?” In unison we answered, “We remember.” We gave George and Tony a Dunkin gift card, some cash, and our street prayer card. We offered them water, crackers, socks, hats, gloves, and blankets. They took only what they needed and then thanked us again and again. As they moved on, we marveled at their faith. With his shopping cart bouncing on the rough pavement, George struggled to maintain his balance. Watching them go on their way, the words of‘I CAN ONLY IMAGINE’drifted through my mind:

“Surrounded by Your glory
What will my heart feel?
Will I dance for you Jesus
Or in awe of You be still?
Will I stand in your presence
Or to my knees, will I fall?
Will I sing hallelujah?
Will I be able to speak at all?
I can only imagine…“

I wonder, if we were homeless, what would we be singing?