Help.

My husband and I went to dinner at our favorite restaurant a few days ago. After a busy and somewhat stressful week, we needed down time.

As we entered the parking lot, my husband pointed out an unusual sight. There was a woman sitting in the middle of the parking lot. It was obvious that she was homeless. It was equally obvious that some type of mental illness was involved.

We parked and exited our vehicle. It was one of those times that we contemplated whether to try and help her or keep our distance and remain safe. What if she had a weapon? What if she became hostile or even violent? What if?

The Lord relieved us of duty. Two women from a neighboring business began to approach the woman asking, “Ma’am, is there something we can do to help?” The women began to scream so the ladies stepped away.

We made the decision to call 911. The woman needed professional help.

When the 911 operator answered, the situation escalated. The woman began taking her clothes off. In the middle of the parking lot. Broad daylight. For all to see. She took her pants off and was bare from the waist down.

I described the situation to the 911 operator. It was then that my husband stepped over to let me know there was an off duty officer in the restaurant. He was on his phone requesting medical assistance for an 11-41 situation. He summoned help for her on his direct line in terms that the police department knew exactly how to help.

Soon ambulance personnel arrived on the scene and, with the help of the off duty officer, loaded the woman into the back of the ambulance. They drove away.

I don’t know who the woman is or her name. I don’t know her history. I’ve never met her family. We don’t know if her family has tried to seek help for her with little to no success.

What I do know is that a stranger needed help. Two women from the neighboring business tried to help. My phone call to 911 was a cry for help. The police officer being in the right place at the right time brought help immediately.

I’m curious. What would you have done in this situation? People need help. Jesus taught that when we help those in need, we are actually helping Him. He calls on us to help strangers. In order to be faithful to Him, we must help.

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