I was saddened to see Ron standing by the curb to help us unload our vehicle last night. He could not deal with the structure of the SDRM. At least I know that I made an attempt to help him, but clearly he doesn't want that type of help. I'll keep praying for him.
Another shocker was seeing Stephen on the boardwalk. He also decided to ditch the SDRM after 6 months! It's so heartbreaking to see somebody do so well for so long, and then give it up when they are so close to getting back into a normal productive life. I have no choice but to continue to pray for him as well... but it breaks my heart to see how the devil's lies of temptation get the best of the people I've grown to know.
The spirit of GOD was with us! His peace & protection was felt. I literally saw darkness flee from the Light for the first time in my life. As I shared what GOD had put on my heart to the crowd, the encouraging responses were amazing. This time it wasn't just a handful of people paying attention... it was only a few in the group of nearly 100 that were not. It was almost like preaching at church! I heard "Amen!" shouts from the crowd a few times and GOD wanted me to share my view with them. Whether they sleep under a roof or have a warm bed to sleep in, they are our neighbors and we are there to love them in the name of Jesus Christ! I don't do it every week, but I felt as though I was supposed to last night... so I brought a backpack full of Bibles. I was able to pass out 7 new Bibles to people who desperately wanted to read what GOD has to say. (Sometimes all it takes for a person to get saved, is right there in black & white!)
Once I was able to walk among the group and speak with individuals, I realized there was a deep anger floating around, probably just inches away from 'rage'. Those who were angry could not explain to me why they were feeling this way. It felt really weird & uncomfortable. When I'd asked each person if I could pray for them, they almost immediately said they had to go. One of the guys wanted a ride to his 'camp'. I was reluctant to have a team member give him a ride, in fear of their own safety, but Joey offered to take care of it. Needless to say I was relieved to get a call and debrief with Joey an hour later.
Over all it was a sweet night. Things seem to be improving in that area. The fruit is starting to show after some long seasons, but it is so worth it. The LTN team is amazing. GOD has really blessed us with people that love to serve Him and can work well with other Christians.
After the food was gone and the truck was packed, I realized I hadn't had much availability to hang out with one of my buddies, Sid. I invited him over to our home to play some video games.
It was nice to have that fellowship and just hang out without being on the go-go-go and in work mode. I learned that he's growing in his walk, been attending a church regularly on Sunday nights. That is an answered prayer! He's made the decision to get plugged in and his desire to get more and grow. He mentioned that he'd heard good things about Horizon from those that have come with me and wants to start coming with me.
Looking back to last night. I am soooooooooooooo encouraged at what GOD has done to me. He's completely changed who I am and is using me to bring hope to the hopeless. I love you LORD!
