Amanda shared her testimony to the smaller crowd of approximately 75 folks. The LORD used her to be of great encouragement to those we serve, and have gotten to know through time. It was a blessing for me to see my beautiful wife sharing her heart and what Jesus has done in her life, to such a crowd.
It's always a treat to see other brothers & sisters from our church (who are not part of our team)coming out to give our Ministry a hand. As was the case this week, with our brother Richard. It's very encouraging to see how GOD has taken our small steps of faith and turned it into a full blown Ministry that He continues to provide for each week.
December 9, 2011
We have been collecting blankets for this cold weather season. I can't recall another time that has been as cold as it has been this year. Tonight we handed out all that we had, which wasn't very many... maybe 15 or so, but at least we know that 15 or so people can now sleep just a bit warmer, and with full stomachs.
It was a relief to be near full restoration in my health. Tonight I was able to again speak, and share what the LORD put on my heart for our guests. I received confirmation that the LORD was indeed speaking, when 5 people came forward after the message. One man in particular, Tobin, stands out from that group. He is back-slidden, and was convicted by the Holy Spirit of GOD tonight to repent and move forward in His relationship with our LORD. Together he and I prayed, and I was able to direct him to a church in the area that he sleeps. It's really sweet to be a part of something so amazing that GOD is doing. I'm humbled by His love.
The gathering attendance was nowhere as large as it's been in the recent past. I stopped trying to count and keep a toll. There is no importance in numbers when it comes to Ministry. Jesus even makes mention of this in Luke 15 - "In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” I only speak of the size tonight for the sake of mentioning how warm & full the people were tonight. Im pretty sure that everybody was able to have a second plate, while some even got thirds.
While we were setting up, I met a couple, from out-of-town, that showed interest in volunteering with us. That was a real blessing! We just so happened to be short handed a few folks. It worked out perfectly, and I'm sure that the couple were blessed to help out too. It's so beautiful that our team is so flexible and isn't caught up on who we allow to participate. (I'm not much for being a 'red tape' kinda guy.) I didn't get a chance to speak with the couple before we parted ways, but I was happy to see our team receiving them well as they served together.
*A praise report! I'm told that Quentin was welcomed into the home of brothers from a church he used to attend. These men have been loving on him, encouraging him, and building him back up in the LORD. Quentin has again stepped away from the alcohol and is back on the narrow path. That is such an answered prayer... Praise Jesus!
