Blessings come in many shapes and sizes. There are few blessings more grand than a family that lives and experiences life together in a healthy and mutually beneficial manner. The EPIC Family is one of those families that may have existed at the turn of century and stars pulled from Leave it to Beaver or Little House on the Prairie. There is nothing outwardly spectacular about any of them, but collectively it is a stellar group of people with hearts that are as pure as gold.
Last night we went downtown to Travis park and handed out small ziplock bags of items needed by the homeless. We had some energy bars, toothpaste, free food coupons, water and other stuff. We took opportunity to pray with those that cared to. We all had fun making friends and chatting it up with the people of the park.
Today, I was sitting outside my Starbucks office and writing this blog about the homeless when I was approached by a young hispanic male. He was clean cut and very polite. He even seemed a bit apologetic to ask to speak to me. His pitch started like most, but much more polite. He identified himself as Daniel and had a wife and children who were in Chick-fil-e asking for money just like he.
I am getting a bit calloused or maybe doubtful is a better word. But I was trying to see what this guy’s skam was. I half way believed his story and gave him more that i could afford. He said, “Thank you, but what I would really prefer is if you would buy me and my family groceries.” Specifically, he asked if I would buy him baby formula as it was expensive. I thought, well he can return the baby formula and net some cash real quick. I hate being a skeptic.
We chatted some more and I was beginning to believe him. He was just trying to make it at time in his life when it was tough. I asked him, “If there was one thing I could pray for and specifically for him, what would it be?” He said he didn’t understand and I explained that I believed God loved him and His family and wanted to help. He said, “If you will pray that God will guide us to make good decisions on the directions we go.”
Daniel was the young man’s name. I think he is for real. I think he just wants to provide for his family and make good choices, so I will pray. I was blessed with this chat with Daniel. I hope to see him again.
God Spots 
What a neat post, Archie. I have been “taken” by others at times. And I think anyone who has a heart to help people has been taken for a ride a time or two. It happens as some people are real pros at getting things out of givers. But there are so many who are sincere, and do need help and no matter how many times we feel we’ve been burned we must keep in mind that the Lord desires to use His children to bless those in need. Great word. Blessings!