For many months, my prayer life has been very dry. I no longer experience God's love as I used to in contemplation. As I read the book "Dark Night of the Soul" by St. John of the Cross, I begin to accept the dryness in my prayer time and learn to change my appetite to appreciate the subtle sweetness of the peace that comes with it.
Yesterday, I saw Tim, my friend, who begged outside the church. As he saw me approaching, he stood up and gave me a big hug. We chatted. As I was moving on to attend mass, he said to me "I love you". Many people said that to me before. But to my surprise, I was deeply touched by his words. His three words touched the part of my heart that has been yearning for God's love. I turned back to him and asked "Really?". He said "yes, I love all those who helped me. I appreciated them. I am very thankful for them and I love them." I said "Thank you" and gave him a big hug. I have hugged a lot of street people before. Every time I hugged them, it's to give them love. But this time, it's different. I was receiving God's love through Tim!!!
As I am writing this, I recall a prayer I said to Jesus, "Jesus, let me see You in the poor". I realized that my prayer was answered!
Reflecting on yesterday's experience with Tim, I asked myself "Who is the true beggar in this encounter?" Even now, I am still savoring the love I received from it. Thank you Jesus!