The parking lot was packed. As we walked into the restaurant, it was obvious that every table was full. We thought about leaving but were quickly greeted by a server as he flew by with a tray full of beverages. He let us know that he would be back with us in a few minutes. True to his word, he came back within a few moments and seated us. He was engaging, funny, and smiled easily. He asked us to bear with him as there were only two servers working. He took the time to explain the menu fully, even though it was your standard burger and sandwich menu. He made us feel like we were the only people in the restaurant and his most important customer.
We understood that he was working for tips, but his actions were beyond “I’m doing my job.” After the restaurant cleared out a bit, we had the opportunity to chat with him further. He asked about us and we learned that this was his second job, and he was working to pay for gas and soccer team fees for his kids. They lived in the country, and it was a 30–45-minute drive to soccer practices and games. The food was good but the interaction with Dave was one that will stay with me. We will go back because of him.
Far too often, we are too busy to welcome the stranger. We fly through life; we grumble about customer service or lack thereof. I know there are times when I can get lost in my “to do” list and the rush of my important day. We get mired in our own daily tasks and forget the grace, love, and welcome that has always been extended to us through God’s redemptive power. As we continue to dwell on Jesus’ words, “I was hungry and you gave me something to eat. I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger and you invited me in” from Matthew 25:35, how can the spirit of welcome resonate in our lives? How can we welcome the stranger not only in our community but act beyond what personally touches us?
For many reasons, personal, political, social, economic, and security, we could easily justify not welcoming the stranger, but never on Christian grounds. Welcoming the stranger is at the very heart of Jesus’ message. I don’t know if Dave was a Christian, but the light and welcome that he so graciously extended while managing a busy life is certainly the way I see God calling me and our Lord of Life community.
Grace and peace always,
Angie Seiller, Director of Faith Formation