Resurrection and toast

It was pouring down rain and no one wanted to talk to me. There is a lot to deal with living in a tent on a church parking lot. How long will it rain? When will my stuff dry out? Why is Reverend Michael standing here with a toaster? The residents had mentioned that a toaster would be a nice addition to their kitchen supplies. “We always get day old bagels and bread donated. It would be better if they were toasted.” The toaster, six loaves of fresh bread, Country Crock spread, and my mostly charming personality help to brighten a wet and dreary day. However, bad weather is stressful for the homeless community. The current need is always the most pressing. Standing in awkward early morning silence, trying to force conversation, I finish my toast and say my goodbyes. The campers are preoccupied with tarps and puddle management. “Thanks for the toast, Mike­­. Thanks for being nice to us, one love!” I walk away feeling like an intruder and an imposter. I am not homeless, and can keep all of my belongings safe and dry. I can also make toast anytime I want. As my self-loathing begins to spin out of control, I can hear camp resurrection take place. Campers yelling, “Anybody want toast? Oh, we have toast — I’ll take some toast!” Praise the Lord!

Manna from heaven, the bread of angels, is not hidden from those who receive it. Jesus says “I am the bread of life: whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst (John 6:35, ESV).” I show up in the rain with a toaster! We can all learn to receive the grace of God. Thanks for being nice to me. For receiving me and my toast!

— Michael Cox