“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they that mourn shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.”

We studied the Beatitudes in our ECC small group not long ago and I really enjoyed our discussions as our group poured over the verses together. But today, the passage came to light.

I enjoy being with fellow believers at Renovo on Sunday afternoons. It feels awesome to be able to do something for someone in need, offering a warm meal and a smile. But today as I watch them, I see something different. As each person makes their way though the line I notice expressions on their faces that I have not really noticed before. Some offer a humble smile as they are served a warm plate of food, possibly a smile of relief that they are not going to be hungry today. Some don’t make eye contact; maybe they wish they didn’t have to be here because they had hoped for much more in life than this. Some look tired, and can barely manage a nod as they receive their meal. Others smile eagerly as they share something good that happened to them during the week. One shares a story that breaks my heart and I pray silently that they will continue to be a survivor. Some shake their heads as they describe their week, having been down on their luck due to a lost job or illness. And I know that it could just as easily be me on the other side of the table. The grim look on a few faces reminds me that they have survived a life that few could understand, and are doing their best just to make it through to the next day.

As I continue to watch them, my heart grows warm .I am being changed in some way today as I see their expressions- sad, joyful, hopeless, hopeful, angry, humble, lost, and found. As they allow me into their stories and show me a glimpse into their hearts, I know instinctively, that these are God’s people. I have never felt this as deeply as I do today. I am humbled as I realize that they have much more to offer me than I have to offer them. I want them to see and feel God in my life, and while I am not worthy of this honor, I am so happy to be a part of their world for a day. But they offer me something that is unmistakable undeniable, and beautiful. I have seen and felt God in their stories, in their laughter, in their pain and courage, in their presence. They have shown me what it looks like to be poor in spirit, what it means to mourn, and what meekness looks like in the midst of pain and sorrow, courage and strength.

I am in awe today as I feel and see God moving about this place, doing His work, His love resting on these people. I have embraced the expressions of some truly wonderful, amazing human beings. And I am thankful that He has allowed me to be here watching.
~Lori Mangrum, Renovo Mentor

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