[IMPORTANT- The homeless situation is tragic. There is no attempt to make fun or make light of anyone in this situation. While this is a true story, empathy and help is still offered.]

“Stranded- being left in a remote, inconvenient, or isolated place, unable to leave due to lack of transportation, money or other circumstances, such being marooned or stuck during a disaster. It often implies feeling of helplessness, abandonment, or being “cut off”” and can refer  to people, animals or …”

If ever there was a good representation for a homeless person, I’d say “stranded” is a perfect description.   Yesterday during late after noon traffic, while getting off of Jacksonville’s I-295 near Orange Park, a man was walking the midway area between cars pandhandling.  In February of 2023, Jacksonville’s city council  passed a law “prohibiting soliciting, exchanging money or goods, and standing in medians for extended periods, carrying penalties of up to $100 fine and 10 days in jail”. 

But, there was Tom.  He’s probably in his 60,s, seemingly able-bodied, and… homeless.  The traffic was really congested and at this time but looking good for him as he dodged the rows of automobiles going to one and then another.  I even heard a passenger in a front car yell out to him and he went running gathering whatever tender hearts would give.  He even landed some Dunkin’ Donuts which he immediately opened and began eating. No one seemed to get fined or arrested this time.

A local news report (still up on the internet)  tells a tale that in 2024 the homeless population was a mere 290 people. I put a question mark here. ? Just in the 32254 area, I can count over 50 just in the small neighborhood so the homeless problem in our city is certainly greater than most people understand. There were approximately 1,009,833 people in Jacksonville in 2024. I would guess there were thousands of homeless in the city if you count every zip code. There are 54 zip codes.

Homeless people are truly stranded.  They walk everywhere they go. Their area is, for the most part, limited to the neighborhood. Sometimes they get a bike but due to the elements and all that goes with homelessness, it does not generally last long and theft among thieves is very high. ( I’m not saying all homeless are thieves but desperation brings out the worst in people). 

Again, I remind those who have Christ in them.  Sharing the Gospel with a stranded person is the one and ONLY thing that can change them. Yes, give something if your heart desires to help, but most of all, say the name of Jesus to them. He is their one and only home. 

We are all stranded without Christ.

See you tomorrow,

Nan

Sources: Jacksonville are news reporter, Google AI overview, Vaughan Publishing, Nannette V. Ramey.