We were able to bring 3 of our buddies to C&V. It couldn't have been a more perfect night either, as the service was "on fire" and filled with The HOLY SPIRIT. Worship was awesome and the guys really enjoyed hearing what other ministries have grown from Horizon Christian Fellowship as the guests shared where the Lord has placed them.
The guys also met some of our friends from homefellowhsip. I think it was good for the guys to meet others like us, to break down whatever stereo-type they may have heard their entire lives about "the Christian church". To see that we're not religious, and that we just genuinely love Jesus.
Afterwards we dined across the street at Papa Johns and 7/11.
Andy had mentioned that he found an AA meeting that he checked out and liked earlier that day. He had no desire to take a drink. Praise The Lord!
We all had a great time while together.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Week 8 (Sunday)
We picked up Andy and Jeremy for service this morning. Both sober and very happy to see us, as we were equally happy to see them at our meeting spot. I really feel for these guys!!!!
After service, I took them to the gym. Andy was ecstatic to be back in the gym scene, getting his work-out on. Jeremy relaxed in the jacuzzi most of the time. Afterwards they were blessed with the opportunity to take hot showers and wash up. They spoke about their desire to participate in the upcoming Festival Of Life. I can see that they genuinely have a hunger for The LORD and are willing to do whatever they can to become a blessing for others.
The biggest obstical they face on a daily basis is the lack of employment. Andy has run into no luck with the jobsearch since moving to San Diego. If only he could find a job... it would get him back on his feet and lift his spirits tremendously. I prayed with them and did my best to encourage Andy. I shared the verse (Matthew 19:26) "With GOD all things are possible!" My number was given out as a contact number for employment inquiries for them.
We just dropped them off and let them know that I'll be in PB picking up Steven for C&V in case they so desired to come along. As the day progressed, I noticed them starting to shake from alcohol withdrawls and it occured to me that they chose to remain sober in order to come to church. Hallelujah!!! I can only imagine how hard it must be to keep themselves from having a drink ALL DAY, just to come hear the Word at 7pm. May The LORD fill them with a joyful spirit and a sobering mind.
After service, I took them to the gym. Andy was ecstatic to be back in the gym scene, getting his work-out on. Jeremy relaxed in the jacuzzi most of the time. Afterwards they were blessed with the opportunity to take hot showers and wash up. They spoke about their desire to participate in the upcoming Festival Of Life. I can see that they genuinely have a hunger for The LORD and are willing to do whatever they can to become a blessing for others.
The biggest obstical they face on a daily basis is the lack of employment. Andy has run into no luck with the jobsearch since moving to San Diego. If only he could find a job... it would get him back on his feet and lift his spirits tremendously. I prayed with them and did my best to encourage Andy. I shared the verse (Matthew 19:26) "With GOD all things are possible!" My number was given out as a contact number for employment inquiries for them.
We just dropped them off and let them know that I'll be in PB picking up Steven for C&V in case they so desired to come along. As the day progressed, I noticed them starting to shake from alcohol withdrawls and it occured to me that they chose to remain sober in order to come to church. Hallelujah!!! I can only imagine how hard it must be to keep themselves from having a drink ALL DAY, just to come hear the Word at 7pm. May The LORD fill them with a joyful spirit and a sobering mind.
Week 8 (Saturday)
6am I picked up Steven and we made our way to Kobey's swap meet for his new bag.
It was another humbling eye-opening experience. I watched as he inspected each luggage bag on the entire grounds, examining the many differant types of wheels, zipper styles, whether it's water resistant or not, capacity level... and most importantly, the ultimate search for the cheapest deal he could find. As he hunted, I examined myself and realized how shallow most of us are. In the past, the most important thing to me was name brand and the warranty it came with. Today Steven has taught me something and I thanked him for that.
I was able to learn more about Steven in the 4hr shopping spree, than I have in the past 2 months because it was just he and I hanging out being buds, joking around and having fun like guys do.
Little did I know that my offering to give him a ride, was actually a huge blessing for him. Me driving him, not only saved him $5 for the bus ride, but he said that $5 was now greatly saved because it will give him the opportunity to wash his clothes at the local laundry mat. As I dropped him back off, he pointed out the spot where he calls 'home'. He asked if I wouldn't mind picking him up Wednesday evening (at the local church that hands out meals that night) so that he can join us for C&V. I said I'd be delighted and he shared his big bright smile.
My heart sank with deep sadness as I drove away because I know that there is so much more that can be done to help these men out... if only I had more resources.
It was another humbling eye-opening experience. I watched as he inspected each luggage bag on the entire grounds, examining the many differant types of wheels, zipper styles, whether it's water resistant or not, capacity level... and most importantly, the ultimate search for the cheapest deal he could find. As he hunted, I examined myself and realized how shallow most of us are. In the past, the most important thing to me was name brand and the warranty it came with. Today Steven has taught me something and I thanked him for that.
I was able to learn more about Steven in the 4hr shopping spree, than I have in the past 2 months because it was just he and I hanging out being buds, joking around and having fun like guys do.
Little did I know that my offering to give him a ride, was actually a huge blessing for him. Me driving him, not only saved him $5 for the bus ride, but he said that $5 was now greatly saved because it will give him the opportunity to wash his clothes at the local laundry mat. As I dropped him back off, he pointed out the spot where he calls 'home'. He asked if I wouldn't mind picking him up Wednesday evening (at the local church that hands out meals that night) so that he can join us for C&V. I said I'd be delighted and he shared his big bright smile.
My heart sank with deep sadness as I drove away because I know that there is so much more that can be done to help these men out... if only I had more resources.
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