Dignity Restored

The other day I started writing a post about the effects that joblessness has on a community and how it attacks one’s dignity. (That post is still to come). But this morning, God showed me a real life example of what dignity restored looks like.

A guy walked into our coffee ministry this morning and asked me how I was doing. “Great” I said. I returned the inquiry and he responded with a huge smile on his face, “I’m blessed. I just got out [of jail] and got myself a job.” He continues by letting me know that he is 40 years old and has never had a real job. He didn’t need one because “these streets have been real good to me.” He walked away to add cream and sugar to his coffee, came back to where I was standing and said, “You know I believe in the power of prayer.” He goes on to tell me how his mother always prayed for him and told him to always pray to God because He is always listening.

He continued sharing with me that he needed to take off work because one of his daughters was coming from out of town to visit. In mid-sentence he stopped, smiled and reflected on the words that he just said. “It feels weird to say ‘work’”, repeating that he had never had a real job before. When I thought he couldn’t get any more excited, he pulled out his phone and showed me a picture of his 3 daughters, smiling so big as he told me how proud he was of them and how happy he is to be a part of their lives.

He paused again and said, “I don’t know why I’m telling you all of this. I have never been so open with anyone. I’m usually a closed off guy.” Then he looked around the room, up to the ceiling and back at me. “But there is just something about this place. It’s so peaceful. I feel love in here.” So he continued. Next he started sharing about his sons, both of whom are in jail. He tells them the streets have nothing for them and that they can do better. He tells them how it feels to work an honest job. But they don’t listen.

I reminded him of his confidence in the power of prayer and encouraged him to keep praying for his sons and that I would be praying for them too. He asked me about the church and I invited him to join us anytime. Come as you are. Really. He told me he would come by for coffee again and that he might come to service on a Sunday.

My heart almost burst out of my chest this morning y’all. God allowed me to witness what dignity restored looks like. A real life picture of why I am so passionate about the vision of Reborn Ministries.

Would you please join me in praying for Omar and his sons, Omar, Jr. and Khalil? Please also pray for workers to join us at Reborn and finances to sustain the ministry. Thanks!