I love the Bible!
I wanted to make that very clear to the readers of this blog... I love the Word of GOD.
"For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12)
Earlier this afternoon, I came down to PB and spent time reading chapter 2 of Mark's gospel with Sid. I'm very encouraged to see the excitement on his face, as Sid is learning the scripture and the significance of each detail. After the study, I went back home to load up for tonight, which leads to the following...
Having the benefit of reading about the mistakes & failures of others, and the lessons taught from them, really gives helpful insight for all of us to learn whether or not we should do something. Tonight I used "Imperfect Pete" as the perfect example of somebody that failed in many ways; as somebody who struggled with keeping promises; and fell short of being a faithful friend... and more importantly how in the 3 years Peter had spent with Jesus, how Jesus was always there to continue loving on him and still helping to teach him. The Lord used the example of Imperfect Pete tonight, in a way that I couldn't have even imagined.... it was a real blessing to see the response from those that paid attention to the message.
The Lord brought us another strong team of people willing to serve for His sake.
Today being the first of a new month, means a few things for us- 1) It used to be customary that our gatherings were smaller due to people receiving their SSI checks and what not. 2) Summer is officially here, which brings lots of tourists to the beach... more availability to plant that much more seeds as people witness what GOD is doing. 3) This marks the 27th month of GOD's faithfulness through Loving Thy Neighbor Ministry, serving the people of Pacific Beach. It's cool to think back and see what GOD has brought us through over the course of time.
New faces came through the lines. I had the opportunity to pray with a few of them. One guy that sticks out, goes by the name of 'Sage'. He would not shake my hand... he's a hugger! He has a gentle and peaceful spirit, and he loves our Lord Jesus Christ.
From the reports of the night, everybody was able to eat today.
We were blessed by a generous donor who provided men's clothing, of which we desperately needed. I heard that one of our regulars was very happy to find some shorts that were an exact fit for him. I find that particularly awesome... the man is of some foreign decent. We think maybe Yugoslavian, but it's hard to tell because he speaks 0% English. James and this man have worked out a fun system of communication through hand gestures since his arrival nearly a year ago. Amanda's friend James, is a valued asset to the Ministry. He has built an incredible rapport with most of the people unlike any of us. I couldn't do that if I tried... but GOD has chosen to use his gifts for that very purpose.
One of the man we serve, has given back to us what GOD has given him, and my prayer is that GOD would bless Tommy for his giving towards the Ministry to further His works. Tommy is another clear sign of good fruit this Ministry has produced.
Each week, a handful of our neighbors ask which bus route would get them to our church. Today was no different. I wish there was a way to make it easily accessible (and financially wise) for more of the neighbors to make it to service Sunday mornings. I simply just can not pick them up.
I mentioned of an upcoming Baptism that our church is doing in Mission Bay and got an interest from a few folks. Most of them already know the area, due to the 'feeds' that happen throughout the week on whichever day they meet at this particular spot. I'm curious to see who will come out and take those steps into the water.... 'excited' might be a better word to describe what I'm feeling inside.
Even with all my imperfections over the time I've spent with this group, they somehow see what I've been sharing with them. Jesus loves us regardless of how many times we mess up or fall short of success. As long as we are willing to reach up and call out to Jesus (like Peter in the lake)... He (Jesus) is there to reach down and lift us up on solid ground, through faith.
I'm sorry for going on and on.... it's been a long day and I'm exhausted. As I turn around to stare at my bed calling my name, I can't help but thank GOD for what He's given me. I pray that GOD would soften the concrete for our neighbors, and turn their cardboard mattresses into temporary mansions for the night.
Good night and GOD bless!
