Man On the Street

3rd Sunday in Lent
a reflection on John 2:13-22

“There’s this guy I keep running into that creeps me out, which is a funny way to put it. You ‘run into’ people you haven’t seen awhile, people you’re glad to see: old friends, distant relatives, former co-workers. You stop and talk. Maybe you pull out a picture, exchange business cards or whatever, and you’re on your way. But, this guy, I don’t know from Adam.”

It is for your sake that I have borne reproach, that shame has covered my face. I have become a stranger to my kindred, an alien to my mother’s children…

“He must be homeless. I mean, he’s everywhere and nowhere: on the streets, in the park, uptown, downtown. I’ve even seen him come out of that little church on the corner and go into the bar across the street. I’m not sure what kind of church wants someone like him, but I knew if I tossed that bum a nickel, it’d go up in smoke or worse.”

It is zeal for your house that has consumed me; the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me. When I humbled my soul with fasting, they insulted me for doing so. When I made sackcloth my clothing, I became a byword to them…

“What’s his story? I wonder. Is he an immigrant? Can he speak English? Does he have some horrible disease? Where’s his family? Why doesn’t someone help these disabled veterans? Maybe I’m imagining this guy. Maybe if I keep ignoring him, he’ll go away.”

I am the subject of gossip for those who sit in the gate, and the drunkards make songs about me. ~Psalm 69:7-11

“What’s his story, though? I really wish someone would tell me. Maybe the next time I run into him, I’ll stop and ask.”