'I Met Jesus at the Drink Table' by Joan Harmon

Some years ago our family belonged to a church in Freehold. We were involved with the Friday night suppers, a ministry outreach. On one particular Friday night I’m sure I MET JESUS AT THE DRINK TABLE.

We were helping with the community supper and I could see Harold, positioned at the steam tables ready to serve that evenings meal along with the other volunteers. Many of the faces that we would see had become familiar, even some of their names. I was at the back of the parish hall setting up the drink table, waiting for “Harry”, one of our regulars, to come and ask me for a cup of coffee before the meal got started. I had become so preoccupied with ‘icing’ the cups and filling them with tea and juice that I didn’t initially notice the gentleman standing directly in front of the table. When I did look up, a man probably in his thirties smiled at me. I asked him if he would like a drink (and as I tell you this story I really can’t remember his answer). However, I do recall him telling me that he had just been released from Monmouth County Jail (located not too far from the church). He said his name was Bob. In his hand was a plastic bag containing what few things he’d had at the jail-personal items, clothing and a Bible.

While I couldn’t tell you the color of his eyes, they were bright and joy filled. He told me that he saw the sign out front and came in for something to eat and drink before moving on. Particulars, he did not share. I was however, so moved by this man’s attitude. He spoke about God’s presence in his life and while he didn’t have a concrete plan, he knew that God was in control. Bob ate and drank and then left. I couldn’t help but wonder if he would be back the next week for dinner. I was anxious to see him and how things were going, but I never saw him there again.

I am convinced though that the Lord stood in front of me that evening and I was humbled. Not by the man, but by the Savior who would make Himself known to me in the faces of His children. I have experienced this on other occasions and in other faces. Some of them right here at the “Chapel in the Woods“.

Yes, I met Jesus at the drink table. He said his name was Bob, but I know better.