What is the Cost?

Recently, I went to Tim Horton's to buy that extra coffee, as I knew I would require extra caffeine. As I walked across the street, there were two ladies standing at the corner of the building talking. One (we’ll call Maria) was holding a sign. She was looking for some change.

As I approached the building, the lady said to Maria, “Thank you for sharing that, and I hope your day gets better,” and walked away. I have no clue if she gave her anything. I kept on walking. When it was my turn to place my order at Tim's, I found myself ordering two. I shook my head and thought, 'What did I just do that for?' Then I knew.

As I left the building, I gave Maria that coffee and her jaw dropped open. “You didn’t have to do that,” was all she could say. She was right, I didn’t. Hadn’t really thought about it. So, I replied, “It’s a cool, damp day due to the rain, and you need to stay warm. Enjoy.”

Now, how much did that comfort and consideration cost me? $2? The look of surprise and joy on her face? Priceless! All the way back to the office, I just kept thinking, it took two seconds to help someone, but at least she knows two people thought of her and didn’t walk past without caring. One took the time to listen; one took the time to give her something warm. This is what the OIM Street Outreach teams do each night. They meet with people and show they care by listening and by providing a sandwich and a snack.

Isn’t that what Jesus meant when he said, when we do it to the least of these, we do it for him? Yes, everyone should do all things as onto Christ. As you pray this week, or better yet, each day, may you remember all the Marias or Joes (for all the men) out there just trying to stay warm against the cooling weather. It takes 2-3 seconds of your time, but the difference has a huge impact all the way around!

~Elizabeth, IVOS Associate