I debated whether or not I should share this...
There have been times in the recent past, where we've come to nearly miss coming down to PB with a meal for everyone (due to lack of funds), and literally at the 11th hour, GOD has sent us exactly what we need to purchase everything!
I only mention this, to allow the readers to understand that we (The team of volunteers) are not an organization or any kind. We are not financially supported by 'the church'. I realize it may appear as though we are because of all the helpful hands on site and the spread of food layed out on the tables, but the reality of it... is that we're just a group of regular people that are friends, who happen to attend the same church, that have the same heart to help those in need, and have made ourselves available to be used by GOD. The only reason we are able to continue week after week is through people donating.
During those last minute moments, while sweating bullets... I was asked this question: "Even if you didn't have any physical food, would you still remain faithfull to feed my flock?" I found myself meditating on this question, searching my heart, for what I'd hope to be the truthful answer - Yes Lord, I will still feed your flock.
Whether or not, one would call that a test from GOD, the next thing I heard came from my wife: 'We should get a PO Box, so that others can donate if they like.' So... that is our next step.
***
We'd arrived and had everything set up, with the help our friends, by the time Joey had arrived. He shared the message this week. After he'd given the message, a man who'd been passing-by on the boardwalk, stopped to listen what was being said, came up to him... and Joey had the perfect opportunity to set down and spend nearly an hour pouring out into this man. We then introduced him to our team mate, Ruben to discuss matters. In short, the man now has a desire to come to church.
We had extra help this week! Our dear friend, Mark, came to visit and help us while out from school. His gentle presence alone, brings peace to the environment when he smiles. I love seeing him sit down to spend deep quality time with the guys. Last night was no exception.
Danna spent what seemed like most of the night (I can hardly call it anything more than 30 minutes anymore, because everything happenes so quickly now) one-on-one with our regular friend Alyse. It's beautiful to see the women spending that time with the women down there!
Everybody was fed, spiritual & physically. I'll be honest, it's discouraging at times to see those who disregard others by carelessly dropping their food and trying to grab another... or those few people who grumble and complain because another person got more of something. There seems to be a sense of entitlement down there for some... not all though. We just keep praying that the good Lord will do a mighty work for them.
We had a few conversations with curious people stopping by to see what was going on. Some said they'd like to help out, some inquired about donations. The cool thing is that each time somebody stops by & asks, we get to tell them about the love of Jesus.
