In his own words: Carrying lunch trays
Editor’s note: Ninth-graders at St. Paul are sharing their faith stories as part of confirmation. Come and hear their stories on Sunday mornings, 10:20-11:05 a.m., through Oct. 14, in Fellowship Hall. This is Ben Eckman’s story.
I have always been told that I live in a sheltered area of the world. I have been told this by my parents and by a few of my teachers. I have heard it so much that I sort of forgot that most people do not live like we do. I had never really seen anything different.
On my mission trip to Omaha this past summer, I finally got to see what it is like for people who are not as fortunate as I am. I got to see people who don’t know where their next meal is coming from. I got to see homeless people and poor people. But through all of the differences between there and here, there was one thing that was the same – God.
I have seen God in many places here. I have seen God at school, my house, and in church. But I have never thought about God being in places with people who are less fortunate. However, I saw God many times during the mission trip. I saw God when we went to the community garden, and I saw God when we went to an area that helped people get back on their feet financially.
However, the one that stood out the most to me was in a homeless shelter where we served people lunch. The cook, named Jimmy, who prepared and served food all day long and didn’t receive many “thank yous,” still interacted with people in the shelter. He talked to the children and made sure people understood how the food line worked.
At one point, a mom walked up with two little kids and was struggling to grab their three trays full of food. Jimmy walked out of the kitchen and grabbed the trays of food and brought them to her table for her. He did this not because he was asked to do it, but because he felt that was the right thing to do.
That was when I saw God on my mission trip.
I realized that no matter where you are or what kind of situation you are in, God is always there to help you. God will never let you down.
Audrey Keeney
Your story helps us to see and know God in a personal way. Thank you. Congratulations on your confirmation.
Kathie Heaps
In the tiniest acts and the smallest of moments, God has a hand. You are wise beyond your years. Thanks for sharing .
Tami Byram Mahl
Thanks for sharing this story, Ben. And congratulations on your confirmation!