I thought the story was pain, suffering and addiction.
I wasn’t expecting to find so much joy at Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission.
I wasn’t expecting my chopped potatoes to mean so much.
I wasn’t expecting that when I put a hair net on to serve them lunch I would understand what it really means to be grateful.
Sean, the kitchen ministry coordinator, says the kitchen isn’t his even though he is in charge, “It’s the Lord’s kitchen,” is what he told us. I heard “This is Amazing Grace” on the speakers as SPIRIT 105.3 played in the background. It has a different meaning when the person cooking the potatoes next to you has overcome homelessness and the other kitchen workers have stories of homelessness, addiction or abuse.
This is amazing grace
This is unfailing love
That You would take my place
That You would bear my cross
You lay down Your life
That I would be set free
Oh, Jesus, I sing for
All that You’ve done for me
“Thank you SO much. This is amazing,” are the words I hear. All I can think is, “I’m only scooping chicken.” I don’t feel like I’ve done anything! Am I ever this grateful?
Who brings our chaos back into order
Who makes the orphan a son and daughter
The King of Glory, the King of Glory
“Thank you for serving,” they tell me. “You’re welcome,” I say, but what I should have said is….thank YOU!
The Mission reminded me that the real story is hope, love and redemption. A story that has a part for all of us.
This is amazing grace
This is unfailing love
