I’d seen him eating breakfast at Starbucks several times over the past couple of months.
I stop in for coffee each Saturday morning. He is always sitting in the same corner nursing a cup of coffee and a muffin.
We spoke last Saturday morning- both acknowledging that we had noticed one another with each visit.
His name is John.
He’s my father’s age. John has a big smile, a hearty laugh and an engaging disposition.
And he’s homeless.
We talked at length last Saturday. He confessed that he’s been living in his car since 2011.
A series of life events have led him to this situation. He makes enough money through his social security checks to pay for a membership to the YMCA (for showering) and to keep a Post Office box for mail. He budgets the remainder of his income to pay for gas, toiletries, washing clothes and meager meals.
His splurge each week is a hot cup of coffee and breakfast muffin at Starbucks.
John has simply fallen through the cracks. He’s not completely on the street, but he’s awfully close. He’d love to have a regular job, but his age and health have made employment difficult to find.
Despite all of this, John has a positive outlook.
And my God will supply every need of your according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
He has a vibrant faith. He has hope for a home in Heaven. He is optimistic for his future.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5
Pray for John to stay strong and to be safe. Pray for those trying to help him get back on his feet.
And let me know how I may pray for you. God bless.
Friday Word(s) 
I have a feeling this man is more thankful for what he has than I am. I seem to take things for granted so often. I need to be more thankful everyday. He is probably a blessing to someone everyday …..
Keith, do you know if John knows about The Amplifier (http://www.theamplifier.org/home.html). It is a street newspaper in Knoxville, and it is possible that he could be a vendor to make a little money. I don’t know anything about that paper in particular, but here in Memphis, we know a man named Kenny who is a vendor for The Bridge (our street paper) – we have gotten to know him because he sells outside of the FedEx Forum and is there when we go to Grizzlies games (we have given him clothes and other items over the past couple of years in addition to money for the shelter, etc.). Anyway, just thought I would pass that idea along.
Praying…
Agent X
Fat Beggars School of Prophets
Lubbock, Texas (USA)