Present to People

Present to God; Present to People. Six words that Charles de Foucauld chose to define his life.

Yesterday we talked about the first three words, Present to God. Now let’s talk about the last three; Present to People. Harder or easier? If we are honest, it’s easy to be present to attractive people, advantaged people, visionary people, and intelligent people. It’s easy to be Present to People who like us and find us interesting.

But I work here at Fred Jordan Mission, on the streets of Skid Row, and I often question my heart. Am I really Present to people who are homeless, hungry, and who haven’t had a bath in weeks? That's another story. They challenge our character and our call from God to care for “the least of these.” We are in their presence, physically, but are we really present emotionally?

Present to People requires us to listen carefully, respond generously, and love unconditionally, with the compassion of Jesus - - even when it might be inconvenient and difficult.

Present to God, Present to People. I know that Foucauld's phrase reduces complex issues to six simple words – something we say in a matter of seconds. But I pray these words will define my entire life.

Here at Fred Jordan Mission our dedicated staff and compassionate volunteers are present to people here on the streets – listening, talking, sharing God’s love and praying with hurting, hungry people.

I need your help. www.fjm.org, is our secure website. Your donation today will help us to be present to broken people here on Skid Row. Or you may donate by phoning toll free, 1-844-FJM-FOOD.

I pray that you and I will always be Present to God. Present to People.

Blessings,

Willie Jordan (Mrs. Fred Jordan