“Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.” Hebrews 13:2
A Stranger
A stranger knocked upon my door.
I had seen this man oft times before.
He plied his trade with face of woe,
His life unlived; his head hung low.
With resignation stamped on his face
He turned away, no sign of haste.
This old man’s stance one of despair—
I couldn’t buy. He didn’t care.
I reached out my hand—he didn’t see.
The words I spoke stayed inside of me.
Did it help this man that for him I prayed?
I still see his face when I’m afraid.
A stranger knocked upon my door.
I had seen this man oft times before.
He plied his trade with winsome grace.
A sunny smile etched his old face.
A face that told the story of many years.
The story of happiness, the story of tears.
He lived life to the n’th degree,
His joy displayed for all to see.
He didn’t care that I didn’t buy.
But, we did a little swapping, he and I.
I gave him my hand as I wished him “good day.”
He left me a sunbeam as he went on his way.
Father, help us to recognize the part we play in the lives of strangers. May we be sensitive to their needs, for indeed, You have sent them to us; and may we also be willing to have our lives touched by them. Amen.