My father’s step-father was a huckster. I have a very vague recollection of him, since I was so young when he died. I most certainly remember the truck though. You know boys and trucks! My dad had responsibility for it briefly prior to its being sold. It was a drab green old Chevy panel van circa 1955 or so. It had, in this little guy’s opinion, a really huge shift lever! It was literally a long stick with a black knob atop it. Even my father, who drove and commanded a tank in the army, seemed to have trouble shifting this old van from one gear to another. My step-grandfather needed this van to do his huckstering. Oftentimes when we think of hucksters today, we think of those infomercials and the guy selling that new, must-have, versatile, never-before-seen kitchen gadget that will make your life so, so, so much easier. It may even foster world peace. So, buy two! Pop-pop George’s huckstering was of a different sort. He sold fresh fruits and vegetables at a very modest and attractive price with the convenience of coming right to you in your neighborhood. Sales were good. I believe that my father thought briefly about continuing the business, but it simply wasn’t his calling. George’s customers were sad at his loss and the loss of their locally delivered farm fresh fare. Hucksters generally get a bad rap, but that was not the case for Pop-pop who was simply an honest man making an honest living while providing a good and needed service honestly. Perhaps, it could be said that Jesus, Himself, was simply a very honest and honorable huckster providing a much-needed service to say the least. Wow! Jesus, the Huckster! Talk about an Epiphany! All He and His motley crew of twelve would have needed was an old beat-up, Chevy panel van circa 1955. And I’m rather certain that Jesus would have been able to drive the old manual stick-shift with ease. One big difference though is that Jesus wasn’t selling His fine fare even at a discount. He was giving it away. He still is. All that’s required on our part is that we bring a large brown bag – just like the ones in which the Magi brought their gifts – and go out to meet this Happy Huckster when He comes to our neighborhood. He’ll fill your bag and mine with all kinds of wonderful and nutritious fare beyond imagining and if you’re lucky, He may even give you a spin around the block in His truck! Listen. I think I hear His truck outside now. It’s time to meet, greet, and get to know this Happy and Heavenly Huckster, Who doesn’t sell anything at all, but rather gives it all away!
Peace!
Fr.. Wilson