Sunday morning, I met David and Robin. They’re a homeless couple that came to worship with us at Mayfair. They stopped by over the weekend and my friend Taylor helped them purchase some prescription drugs they needed. They decided to come back on Sunday morning for worship. When the communion tray was passed to them, Robin turned to the couple next to them and asked, “What is this?”
Robin was recently diagnosed with cervical cancer. She’s set for surgery next week. She and David have been staying at the Downtown Rescue Mission for several days; they’re working with the Housing Authority to procure government housing. Robin called me today because she needed some help with a few more prescription drugs. She and David were also hungry, so I offered to buy them lunch. When I asked her what she wanted, without hesitation Robin replied, “I been craving Burger King. Is that OK?”
When we walked in to Burger King, I had the chance to see firsthand what life must be like for David and Robin. Their clothes are ratty; they smell a little; you can tell they don’t bathe often. As a result, people stare at them. David and Robin placed their order while I waited in line behind them. As they finished, I stepped forward to order a water and pay for their meals. The girl behind the counter continued to look at Robin. “Your total is…” I had to tell her to wait, that our order wasn’t complete. With my slacks and button down shirt, I guess I didn’t look like I should be with them.
While we ate, I realized something: I’m uncomfortable around the poor. This is probably due to the fact that I spend very little time around the poor. This is unfortunate. It’s unfortunate because it means that I spend most of my time with people like me: white, middle-class, evangelical Christians. As I sat across the table from David and Robin, I realized how little I had in common with them. But as we continued to share table together, common ground began to emerge. Come to find out, we all love Burger King’s chicken sandwiches. We’re all equally passionate about our college football teams (Robin’s an Auburn fan, David yells “Roll Tide” and I, of course, bleed UT orange). We even share a belief in God and Jesus. With french fries as our communion, our corner booth became the table of fellowship and love.
Jesus said “whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” Today I learned that Jesus likes Whoppers.
I wonder if he likes Big Macs…
already & not yet 
That is why you are a man of God. I would have a very hard time doing something like that.
I think He’s a little skittish about the trans-fats.Seriously, keep up the good work. Jesus loving people through you will always be more powerful than you trying to do it alone.
Thanks for the encouragement, guys. I hope I can become more comfortable around people who aren’t like me.
Those people are in need of someone being ‘Jesus’ to them as much as the person sitting next to you on Sunday is.
Exactly, Jon. C.S. Lewis once said, “Next to the Blessed Sacrament itself, your neighbor is the holiest object presented to your senses.” We must get to the point where we see people as God’s image-bearers. All our other identifiers must be peripheral to that one.
That’s a cool story, Jason. I know exactly what you mean. I remember feeling uncomfortable when we did Spiritual Emphasis Day, but I eventually got over it when I saw how much fun everyone was having and realized that they didn’t want help, they just wanted a friend.And I’m pretty sure the “J-Man” wouldn’t turn down a Thickburger…
SED was a great way to get us out of our comfort zones. That’s something I need more of.
I must admit I was disappointed that you weren’t talking about the chocolate malt candy, Whoppers… …yummy!
Awesome story man. Brooke and I were just commenting tonight on your way with words, but your way with people is even more masterful.
Thanks, Thomas. You guys are too kind. I’m thankful to be serving alongside you all at Mayfair.Jamey, I’m all about some Whoppers…both kinds!I’ll bet Jesus like chocolate.
Great job Jason! Sharing your story with David and Robin is an encouragement to all of us to keep at it in living for Jesus.