It is funny how you can have your mind set on one thing and then all of a sudden, your plans are changed by what would seem to be an a coincidental accident. Life's interruptions are God's opportunities.
Yesterday around 2 in the afternoon, the 5 of us were walking around New Philly handing out fliers for a Christmas Caroling event sponsored by a local church. I went with Ben. Correy, Link, and Mikey went down to the mall. Ben and I walked down to the local coffee shop and I had to stop at the bank which was right next door. As a came out of the bank, I see Ben standing with this tall, unkempt black guy. I was like "huh, I wonder if this guy wants to hand out fliers with us or something." I introduced myself to the man. He said his name was Joel.
He then went on to tell me something I was completely not expecting... that he had just been released from the County Jail and needed a ride back to Columbus by 7 the next morning or there would be a warrant out for his arrest. I then thought to myself "I dont think we are going to be handing out anymore fliers."
So Ben and I took Joel back to the house. As we were walking, Joel began to tell me how he is from Columbus and he was visiting his girl about a half hour from New Philly. Some stuff happened, the girl says some stuff, and Joel lands up in County Jail for a night. He gets released this morning, goes to a homeless shelter to eat and then is told that he has to find a way back to Columbus by 7 am the next day or he will be arrested again. No officers or judicial workers would give this guy a ride to the place they demanded he be! It really sucked for him, and he was in a really rough spot.
So we get to the house, give him some coffee and cake, and tell Don and Travis what is going on. Joel is freaking out. We call the homeless shelter to see if they can do anything about it. Nothing. So then, immediately, Lincoln is like "you guys can take my jeep." I love Lincoln's heart. I looked over at Joel and he looks like he is feeling guilty that he is making us take him back to Columbus. Then Correy looks directly at Joel, and says "Joel. You are getting home. These two gentlemen right here are going to drive you. Don't worry. We are taking care of it. You are getting back to Columbus.
Man, I love the Body of Christ. I love Correy's boldness. That is something I am really learning. To be bold. Correy speaks his mind. And he doesn't care. I really appreciate that about him. Anyway, so Joel was really relieved.
Ben and I ended up taking Joel back to Columbus. It was about a 2 hour drive, but it was worth every moment. Ben and I drove an ex-convict back to Columbus. 3 years ago, I honestly would have never believed you if you told me that I would drive an ex-convict 100 miles in order to help him not go to jail again.
It is amazing how Christ will transform your life. Ben and I felt so much joy in helping this man out. I feel like God has all these opportunities for us all the time, but we just are not willing, or not listening. Ben was listening and willing.
Joel was a miracle. As we heard more of his story, I realized that everything about life is a miracle. I will never forget what this man said to me. He looked at me and said "Man, i have been through some rough (explicative), but what has kept me alive is God." Joel went on to tell us how he has been wanting to change, and how he wants to know God with his heart, not just believe in Him in his head.
The Divine has intervened in human affairs, and has not only intervened, but cares about human affairs enough to become that which He has created in order to ransom those He loves. Joel made me realize that even more yesterday.
The rolling hills of Ohio were never more beautiful on that cold, December night. As we drove off into the sunset, I could not help but smile and know deep within me at God is good. This thing that we are all apart of, following Jesus...... it...is....so...real.
True Blessings in this Christmas season,
JN
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