New Orleans Mission trip story: Today, we ministered to people in the park across from City Hall in New Orleans. As we were unloading the van, a woman approached us and asked what group we were with. It made us laugh, and we asked if it was that obvious we were from New Orleans. She laughed and said she figured we were a group that comes out to feed people. We explained who we are and told her that while we had some snacks, we would spend most of our time visiting with people and telling them about the hope they have in Jesus.
She then introduced herself, and we learned that she had been homeless for years and had a case worker trying to help her find housing. In the middle of our conversation, she noticed that Cam’s shoe was untied. She called him over, knelt down, and tied his shoe. She shared with us that despite her difficult circumstances, she tries to spend her time taking care of others. Our group was really humbled in that moment, watching her kneel down to take care of one of our members.
It is so easy to cast judgment or make assumptions about someone’s life, but we have found that many people are just like us. Some have found themselves in unfortunate circumstances, but they still have something to offer this world. I hope we were able to encourage Kristine that she has something to offer others despite her circumstances and that she has hope in a Savior who sees her love and compassion for others.