I know that we should never scale the outcome of something based off feelings, but tonight really did feel special, and in a really good way!
1- We got hooked up with the closest parking spot possible, which for any of you who've come down to PB on a Friday night, know just how rare and awesome that alone is.
2- There was so many more people from the crowd smiling tonight. It seemed as though almost everyone was in a good mood.
3- I met tons of passer-byers who were just so full of encouraging words tonight!
4- The Love of GOD was evident and His protective presence was felt.
The message that I shared tonight was inspired by a scripture verse that my Pastor shared in this mornings devotion: Psalm 18:30 - "As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him."
From the get-go, I was given the opportunity to pray for a man named, John Patrick. He has a desire to give up his nictotine addiction, through faith in Jesus Christ. I look forward to hearing from him next Friday.
I met a sister of the faith, who happened to be in the area tonight (by chance) and she was full of encouraging words and has a willing heart to serve with us in the future.
With the faithful help of Ruben & Danna, The Evans', Marci & Carl, and James... it's really opened the doors for me to move around and socialize with everyone while they eat. It's very rewarding and I'm continually thankful to have that freedom. It would not be possible without their help!
I spoke with a few familiar faces and got to meet some new ones. I'd prayed for a man named "Justice" back in February, for the Divine Deliverance of heroin through Jesus Christ. He came up to me to give a praise report that he's still sober and has had no desire what-so-ever since that cold February day. Justice asked to attend a church service with me soon. I'll be making arrangements to get him asap. He seems so happy and gives all the credit to our Heavenly Father! It's truly amazing to see the transformation in somebodys life out here on the streets. He hasn't even stepped foot into a church service yet, but he's so on fire for Jesus! God is doing such miraculous things on the boardwalk. Justice has made a commitment to sharing his personal testimony with a fellow homeless man struggling with the same addiction he once had. (I mentioned that individual last week.)
I met a few other believers who waited in line for their meals. It was neat to hear their stories and how GOD has helped them in their perilous times. I appreciate that they've opened up to me to share such details of their own lives.
Mr. Tim Tracy asked me and the team, to please pray for his application to process for his SSI. He's an older gentleman and fellow believer. He's always greeted me with such friendly smile. (I often use him as a focus point in the crowd when I speak to the group.)
Most of the hygeine items that we had are now in the hands of those who need them, but sadly we know the reality is there will be plenty more to come, with just as much need as the next... and at this time, it appears we don't have anymore to give out. I trust that GOD will provide, just as He always does week after week.
One comment that an individual said to me struck me, and stuck with me the entire time down there tonight. He noted that he's seen the homeless people of Pacific Beach become a bit more happier when Friday comess around. Praise GOD for that! Amanda and I consider it such a blessing to even be worthy enough to be a part of something that GOD is doing.
