7 - Juan...

Apprehensively, the man said, “Juan Vargas.”  ​

Colossians 3:23-24, “(23) Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, (24) knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”(ESV)

At this moment, he stood still while his remaining classmates walked on.  A young lady, touched his shoulder and said, “You okay Carlos?”  

He replied, “I’m better than okay, I’m blessed.  This is easily one of the best days of my life.”  With that, he smiled, walked off campus, and began his mission.  He began looking for someone, anyone whom he could help.  He walked for 15 minutes in search of any ailing person.  As he made his way closer to mini-mall, he saw a homeless man seated, soliciting for money. 

Feeling like this was easy, he immediately reached into his pocket to give the man his last $15.00.  He figured he’d pass the man the money, explain the envelope, have him sign the card, take the selfie and he’d be nearing the end of the assignment.  However, he couldn’t help but feeling like doing it this way was more self-serving, than being of service.  He was provoked with a desire to do more.  So, he asked himself this question, concerning the performance of his assignment:

“If I were in this man’s shoes, what would I want?  What would make me happier than anything?”

With that, he knew what he was supposed to do.  Carlos approached the man, sat down beside him, and said hello.  He asked, “what’s your name?” 

Apprehensively, the man said, “Juan Vargas.”  Carlos said, “Hi Juan.  My name is Carlos.” And then extended his hand towards the man for a handshake.  Juan was even more curious about Carlos.  He pondered strategically, doing his very best to figure out what exactly was this strange man’s angle.  After all, it wasn’t every day that people even noticed him; let alone, offered conversation or a cordial handshake. 

Juan nervously asked, “Are you the police?  Because, I’m not looking for any…”

​“No”, Carlos softly interrupted.  “I’m a student at VSU.  I’m actually pretty hungry and I wanted to see if you’d like to join me for a meal?”

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