A story I once heard

The retired pastor of an urban church continued to live at the rectory. He helped around the parish, but had plenty of free time.

He began to notice the number of homeless people in the neighborhood. They were constantly begging in front of the church.

One day, he made a few sandwiches. He took them out to the people. He talked to them, listening to their stories and encouraging them to get help.

Each day he made more sandwiches. He also compiled a list of places that could help the people.

Some of the people began going to those places and got help.

Meanwhile, as word got out, more and more homeless people began coming to get sandwiches. The priest would spend hours talking to them, listening to them, sitting with them.

Finally, some of the local media caught wind of it. There were several stories in print and on television.

Soon he began receiving checks from people, including many fellow priests. They often included notes, praising him for what he was doing.

He always sent the checks back, with a note that said: “Make your own damn sandwiches.”