On a beautiful, chilly day in January, just before our 10:00 a.m. opening time, I looked out the door facing Flagler Avenue. There I noticed a very large man pacing on our porch. The man was obviously anxious to come in. I opened the door and asked, “Can I help you?” He handed me a piece of paper and began to tell his story.

His name was Bob and the note he had was from our Congregational Care team from CCUMC. I quickly scanned the form and we found a quiet corner to talk. He had learned of our church while attending a support group meeting at our Hospitality House. From there, he met with our Congregational Care team and told them of his recovery. He had recently found a job as a house painter. He was excited but concerned because he had very few clothes. If he wore them to work, what would he, could he wear in public? They sent him to the church Boutique. I told him: we can provide you with what you need. There was only one little problem: Bob stood 6’4” tall, with broad shoulders, long legs and large feet.

After explaining the situation (discreetly) to our cashier, I rallied the troops. Bob needed extra large shirts, shorts and size 13/14 shoes. I asked the men who were manning our receiving area to see what they could find. They immediately set to work. In the meantime, we found a jacket in his size (he didn’t have one), socks, underwear and a backpack to put everything in. Our receiving guys brought up a stack of shirts and some shorts. They had also found a pair of good quality, albeit used pair of shoes – in his size. They were a perfect fit.

Bob was a happy guy. He thanked all of the volunteers repeatedly. He left with a big smile on his face.

What he probably didn’t realize was how rewarding it was for all of us to help – to show God’s love in His world.