More Than Just Food

Awhile back, I awoke at 5:30am for my usual Wednesday shift as chief cook and bottle washer for Third Street Church of God's homeless breakfast and worship service. For some reason, I couldn't get going, and was late arriving to the church.

When I arrived, there were already dozens of people waiting for the doors to open. As I made my way through the group, walking past some men whom I didn't know too well, I heard one of the men turn to another and say, "John are you staying here instead of going to [another breakfast program in DC]?"

John looked at his friend and said, "Yep, I'm sticking right here. They don't just give you food here. They have a worship service and talk about Jesus. Man, it makes my whole day. And besides, I've met some people here that I want to talk to today."

As his friend walked off, John looked up, noticed me, and said, "He'll be back." I wanted to ask John more about his friend, but I had to get breakfast started, and made my way inside.

Fortunately, I got some answers later that morning. I came out front while we were serving breakfast and spotted John's friend. He was indeed back--and talking with some of our CSM students who were helping with the breakfast and the service. John, his friend, and others were being fed spiritually as well as physically. They were getting "more than just food", as John so aptly put it.

I continue to be amazed and blessed by the opportunity we give students, and the homeless men and women whom they serve, to minister to one another as they share faith, struggles, and prayer together.

Mark Harmon, Former City Director (1993-2008)
Washington, D.C.
Center for Student Missions