Fellowship Memphis

“We’ve got ta, got ta, got ta try a little tenderness.” It may seem odd to begin a story about my experience at the Memphis Union Mission with a lyric from Otis Redding’s “Try a Little Tenderness.” Not for me, because I can relate any situation to an Otis Redding song. But for those who don’t see the correlation, let me explain.

When Ricky first announced Fellowship Downtown’s partnership with the MUM, he asked us to sit amongst the men of the mission - to engage them in conversation, and really let the light of Christ shine in our interactions with them. But surely, this was only to keep them company as they ate – a by product of why we were really there. These people have no desire or need to carry on a conversation with me! Boy, I was so wrong!

I started thinking, “How can I show these people Christ’s love if I can’t really relate to their situations? I have no idea what to say to them! Well, Christy, they’re normal people so talk to them as such.” But when I talk to “normal” people, I ask about his/her day, his/her plans for the weekend, and about how terrible the referees were at the previous night’s Grizzlies game (and trust me, they are almost always terrible). How do I even begin to relate?

Then it dawned on me: they have the exact same spiritual and emotional needs that I do. They long for fellowship and to be a part of a community that will support them no matter what. Our homeless brothers and sisters are treated so poorly sometimes. When asking for help, they can hear terrible obscenities or receive a scowl. Most times, they are ignored. Can you imagine anything more defeating for the soul? Let’s practice a little tenderness on our brothers and sisters.

There is not a physical thing in this world that can save someone. No meal is that awesome! Here’s what is awesome – the love of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ saves us and gives us eternal life. And He will do the same for them when we share the Gospel.

We started that at our last meeting with them. I met some really awesome men who are just longing for community with Christ’s followers. After a powerful worship service, many men accepted Christ. If Fellowship can have that impact in just one outing, think of all that we can do in future outings. I can’t wait! Let’s give those hands and feet of Jesus Christ a good stretch and get to it.