By faith ~ Week 21

I must be honest from the start. It was 3 weeks ago tonight, that I heard GOD calling for a baptism in Pacific Beach. I questioned why I was repeatedly hearing this over and over in my head, but I knew it was something GOD was planning, so I agreed with Him and asked to be given 3 weeks. Tonight was the night!

Building up to this day, I wanted to make sure I was hearing Him clearly, so I did what was needed to be spiritually ready for whatever He had planned. By mere faith, I was faithful... not fully understanding how or why, but eager to see what was in store.

As Amanda and I drove down, my stomach was knotting up. I was very nervous, about to take a large leap of faith. What if I was wrong? What if I didn't hear GOD correctly? I prayed en route and by the time we'd arrived I was completely at peace. I knew GOD has already sent His Spirit and prepared the way.

When our team was done with setting up and while the food was heating up to serving temperature, I died to myself and allowed GOD to take control. I soon found myself standing atop the wall, as if on stage, in front of 70 people, which soon grew closer to 100 people, sharing The Romans Road and offering prayer. The gospel was preached and an opportunity was given to receive Jesus Christ as their personal Lord & Savior. I should mention that everyone was already in line waiting to be served. I asked for those who wanted GOD's gift of salvation to step aside so Joey and I could pray for them. 8 people came forward! I could not believe what I was witnessing. We prayed and explained the life changing decision so that they'd understand what the next step would be. Then came the baptism. Mind you, it was a very cold evening tonight, with lots of ugly marine layer. The water did not look inviting at all...

I mentioned that I felt GOD was calling for a baptism, and asked for those who wanted it to make that courageous step onto the sand with me. 3 of the 8 came down and we walked waist deep into the brisk Pacific Ocean. As each man fell backwards, trusting me to catch them, the waves crashed over them, we said good bye to the 'old man' and asked The Holy Spirit to wash them new. It's so hard for me to keep typing, because as I replay all that's happened tonight I can't help but sit in utter shock that GOD just did that!

Now here's the rest...

Randy and his family contributed to the feed by making a giant pot of hot soup. It smelled and looked delicious! Just the perfect thing to warm up those that were now soaking wet standing in line. Amanda had prepared her usually spaghetti, fettuccine Alfredo and garlic bread. Through out this week's donations, we obtained many blankets and more clothes to pass out. (Again we thank those that have given.)

A gentleman walked by and GOD put it on his heart to give a large financial donation towards the ministry. He handed it to one of the men standing near by, and that individual decided to keep half for himself. Needless to say that I was discouraged when I found out. It's not my place to judge that man for his actions. He'll have to face judgment with GOD one day. He wasn't stealing from us... rather he just stole from GOD!

The food lasted longer than usual this time. Some of our guests were even able to have second plates. Our friend Chicago stopped by to visit for some fellowship. He looked great and was still not drinking. His head was clearminded and he now has a possibility for work at a nearby market. Praise GOD! He mentioned that he'd like to attend C&V with us, instead of Sunday service... which should work out well since I only have so much room in our vehicle and we now have the 3 men from earlier who all asked if I could pick them up for Sunday, plus Steven, which makes a full load. I really enjoy being a part of what GOD is doing in Pacific Beach.

It's a blessing to see what a differance a little love makes. If only everyone else lived by that commandment too, right? We have upcoming plans to get these men & women involved to love their neighbors, who don't do the same.

Week 20

The people have multiplied each week and last night was certainly no different. I know I've said that I try to not keep track of numbers, but I couldn't help myself last night. Amanda and I were short handed, so it was just the 2 of us and I wanted to see what we where up against before we got started, so I kinda looked down the platform and was slightly overwhelmed with what I saw. The Lord fed somewhere between 80-90 hungry people and used us to serve them.

We did our best to familiarize with the faces as they passed down the make line. I made it a point to recognize who we'd missed the previous week and ask about others who haven't shown up, only to show that we do care about all them as individuals. We try to remember all the names of the men & women down there, but as it grows it gets harder and harder. The one thing that saddens both Amanda and I is that as it grows, the intimacy of speaking with each person slowly evaporates because we become too busy to stop and just talk.

Most of the people are sincere and show their appreciation for what we're doing. Our response is always to give thanks to GOD, not us. Be thankful to Him for making this happen. This has nothing to do with us. We're merely His workers doing as we're told, and we love it!

On 2 separate occasions last night, we had passer-byers ask which church was putting this on, which ironically both attend church at The Rock, but we told them the situation and they were both blown away at what they'd heard. One of the women, made a comment that struck me like nothing before. She said 'This shows me that I need to step out and just do something too.' I'd never really thought about it before, but by my wife and I being obedient to GOD, He's also using us to encourage other believers who maybe need to see such a thing, to possibly "ignite their own fire".

I regret that I wasn't able to share a bible study. Although every single noodle and every single crumb from the brownies and Lisa's cookies were gone in 30 minutes, everyone still seemed to vanish when it came time for The Word. I feel something inside when that happens. I can't seem to find the correct word to describe the feeling either. I'm not disappointed, because it's not about me... Pity maybe? Sorrowful? These men & women are missing out on the opportunity to hear GOD's love and promises. They are the ones missing out! I feel sorry for them, not because they're homeless, but because they're all choosing to seek something on their own. I'm there to feed them physically and spiritually. I will never be one to push anything upon anyone. GOD's gift of Salvation is free, and I'm there to help show people how to obtain that.

In His arms of Love ~ Week 19

Tonight was incredible! I'll do my best to share everything I can remember about tonight.

Amanda and I arrived around 5:30pm (just to be safe due to the Labor Day weekend chaos) and GOD hooked us up with a great parking spot right off the bat.

We had the honor of another home fellowship joining us for the evening, which was a tremendous help and blessing.

The spread of food itself was an amazing sight to see! The usual spaghetti, chicken alfredo, and garlic bread... but our brothers & sisters also brought a giant salad w/dressing, and tons of desserts, and also an additional package of bottled waters. Lisa, our sweet hearted photographer, donated another batch of her delicious cookies for all to enjoy.

Our brother Randy was able to make it down from Vista as well, along with his family, which is always a treat to have around. We had enough man-power to take on whatever was thrown our way.

Before we got started, we opened in prayer and I felt confident that GOD was going to do something special tonight. This was the first time we'd been blessed to have some worship music! Everybody manned their stations: from the serving food, passing out waters, dispensing hygiene necessities

A lot of new faces made their way down the make line. One of those was a man with an electric guitar and amplifier. When it was time, he joined in the worship and played along rather well. Worship was AMAZING!! It was so cool to see GOD use that for His glory. I'm learning to not pay much attention to numbers anymore, but for the sake of curiosity for those missing out, I'd say we served close to 60 men & women. GOD's presence was with us tonight and I'm sure all of us felt it. Things went so smoothly, almost as if He had Angels positioned at each end of the pathway. No problems for any of us.

One of our regular buddies was kind enough to use his craft and bless the women in our ministry with roses made from palm leaves. (I'll post pics when I get them) They are really neat! There is so much talent hidden in some of these men down on their luck. The world is against them because of their current residential status and it's sad.

I think it's important to mention that through this ministry GOD is using each of us not only on Friday nights, but during the entire week too. GOD is faithful to use those who are willing to step out of their comfort zone for a change. So much more has been going on in this past week with others who have joined in the ministry, but I'll leave it up to them to share or not. All I can say is GOD is doing things!

This week rolls us into our 5th month in PB and looking back at when things started, GOD's love has come along way. People have accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Lord & Savior; People are attending church on a regular basis; Men are volunteering for service set up; Others have broken free from years of addiction; People are allowing their walls to be broken down and learning to trust us because we've shown GOD's love and not our own.

Of course there's still plenty of work to be done. There's so much pain to be healed and broken lives still need to be touched in an incredible way. Rest assured Satan is not happy with what's been going on, and Lord willing... I'll continue to throw my Holy jabs in his face (in Love of course).

We were able to complete John 3 in tonight's study. It was encouraging to see the home fellowship stick around for that. I was nervous at first but GOD helped settle my nerves as He poured out the message. Sitting there in that circle with the group, I felt a deep sorrow because I knew some of the people I've been ministering to just aren't getting it yet. The Spirit of GOD did stir up Lee though, which gave me hope. For those that have followed this blog, Lee was one of the first guys who accepted Jesus as our ministry was just getting started months ago. I hardly see him around, as he usually just passes through like the wind, but last week he said he'd join us and he kept his word. I know that was GOD speaking to him and I'm glad he showed up and stayed for the study.

Afterwards I was able to pray with Chicago. He definitely needs prayer as he's going through depression right now. When we first arrived and were setting up, somebody had walked over and started beating on him. He was angry about that and asked why GOD would do that to him. Randy and I ministered to him and informed him that GOD didn't do that, although He may allow things like that to happen because of a thing called "sin", but it wasn't GOD who did it. We prayed together before I left asking Jesus Christ to reveal Himself to Chicago. He needs to be set free from the liquor bottles. I wish I could just give him a good shake and all would be fixed, but in reality.... I know it's only the Blood of Jesus that will cleanse him.

I want to say a special THANK YOU to all that have contributed to this ministry. We appreciate it and just know that your Heavenly account is growing. Tonight I really feel GODS embracing arms of Love wrapping around me. It's nice to feel in tune with Him for a change.

Week 18 (Sat-Sun)

This weekend went by too fast. It was an eventful roller coaster ride full of emotions with it's ups & downs. It had it's disappointments, but better yet it also had it's highs and that's what I'm focusing on most.

Saturday morning I picked up Andy and Jeremy from around the corner. They stayed the night in Clairemont around the corner from us. We made our way to PB to pick up Steven and Anthony. We had hoped for Chicago as well, but seeing the shape he was in Friday night I doubted he'd be making it with us.

We were able to help out the staff at Horizon with the set up again and things went along really quick. Brian was generous enough to kindly buy bagels for everyone, and as it was super hot we also had a large tub full of bottled ice waters to keep us hydrated. Once the set up was complete, Brian hired the helping hands of Jeremy for some work at his home. Jeremy was excited to earn his money for a change. Though this was the first few hours of knowing Anthony, he's a likable guy and very encouraging. He recently moved to San Diego from Virginia to break free from personal issues. I tried to listen and give the best advice I could to him. He knows the bible well.

As we dropped off Steven & Anthony, they both agreed to meet up for church on Sunday.
Amanda, Andy, and I were able to link back up with Jeremy before heading to Vista for a friendly time of fellowship & BBQ at Randy's place. (He makes an awesome steak!) It was a perfect place to relax and enjoy a swim in the pool.

After that, we dropped Amanda off and headed to Horizon Park Chapel, in downtown San Diego to support our friend & brother in Christ while he was doing some live art. The environment was live. The church had many talented people performing: break dancing, choreographed group dancing, poetry, musicians, and a pretty good dj. I believe it was a good thing for Andy to see that there are so many ways to use your talents for The Heavenly Kingdom. I realized that this scene wasn't something Andy would normally put himself in, but he seemed to enjoy it for a short time. Jeremy and I had a blast. As an artist myself, I really enjoyed witnessing a new masterpiece evolve from the hands of Joe and his friend. Being around Joe and seeing how GOD has blessed him with his talents, rekindles my passion for art, yet I'm too nervous to make any attempts to step out and display my own work.

We headed down to PB at Andy's request. He tried really hard to get Jeremy to stay down there with him, but Jeremy held his ground and knew it wasn't a good idea if he'd done that. I could sense a spiritual battle happening right before us, and it upset me to see how crafty Satan is using people to set others up for downfall. As Jeremy and I headed back up to Clairemont, I let him know I understood how hard it must've been to decline a night of possible partying especially since he now had a pocket full of money from working earlier in the day. I wasn't afraid to let him know how proud of him I was. We made arrangements for church in the morning and went on our separate ways for the night.

The following morning the first person I spotted was Anthony, as he waited patiently... then Steven popped up with his large luggage bag and umbrella... then Andy came cruising around the corner with his giant smile and long blond hair. We picked our seats and waited for Amanda and Jeremy to arrive.

I then got a call that Jeremy had been drinking when Amanda went to pick him up, so I made the wiser decision to not bring him. I know he would've been a distraction during service, as he had many times before. His choosing to drink, also voided out his opportunity of me helping him get into the San Diego Rescue Mission. (He and I had an agreement that it was time he pulled his weight and proved that he really wanted help by remaining sober for 24hrs)

Pancho Juarez was our guest Pastor for the weekend. As always, The Lord spoke to each of us in our own ways, but at the end of the sermon... it was Anthony who made that personal commitment to step forward and receive Jesus Christ as his Lord & Savior. Praise GOD!!! After service I waited in the backroom for Anthony, there I ran into Brian. He wanted to bless Anthony and offered to take him out for lunch and drive him back down to PB. Though Anthony knew scripture before, his soul was now settled with what he'd faced back home. Looking at him, he glowed of peace & joy.

Steven asked if he could join us during the week for C&V from now on, which we agreed to. Even if the ratio is 1/100 to those we minister to, it's still worth it. I encourage others to never give up hope. I encourage others to run the race as Paul put it. Jesus told us about the parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-23), so we should not be surprised that some fall to the side, but we should not be discouraged about that... it should push us to work harder to share the good news with everyone we encounter.

And His presence was known ~ Week 18

There was something special about tonight. Maybe it was the fact that we had some long lost friends join us again, or perhaps it was because we were blessed with another brother from church joining us tonight to help serve, or even perhaps the fact that Joey was back with us.

It all started off with GOD hooking us up with the most awesome parking spot and Randy being available to make sure we got that particular spot upon our late arrival. As expected, we had plenty of men willing to help us unload the materials. Those are the ones with a servants heart, even if they don't yet know it.

I was shocked when I noticed a very likable gentleman from our home church show up to help us out. GOD knows exactly what we need, and when we need it. I need to stop worrying so much about the small things and remember that He is in control of all that goes on anyways. Jesus said: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" (Matthew 6:25-27)

Our makeline ran well with: Amanda on the alfredo, me at the spaghetti, Brian with the bread and cheese, while Jeremy handled the fruits & waters. Food lasted about 30 minutes with almost everyone getting 2nds. Lisa spoiled us with her delicious cookies again! After dinner, Brian and I handed out hygiene packs as needed.

As new faces made their way through the line, I was able to ask their names and introduce myself to make things a bit more personal, rather than slopping pasta on the plates as they do in cafeteria's. I do my best to remember names with faces, although I admit it sometimes takes a few attempts.

7pm sharp a small group of us sat on the ground in a tight circle to read through chapter 3 of John's gospel. New faces joined in and all gave good insight. The ministry is going really well!!!
As the ocean started to swallow up the sunlight, I thought it would be best to end our study for the night, with plans to pick up next week. It's so nice to have Joey back on the scene. He was wise in closing our study with the sinners prayer. As we sat and prayed, I could feel what I'd describe as a mist showering down upon us, but without water... almost as if our small group was washed clean by the Holy Spirit as He came down upon us tonight. I know some readers will think I'm crazy as they read this, but I trust that one day, you too will know exactly what I'm referring to. An amazing feeling of comfort came over me as we wrapped things up.

About 10 of us sat in fellowship afterwards, just hanging out. In just a few hours we'll be doing our weekly service for GOD's house. There is so much more I could share but I enjoy leaving the readers on their seats until next week. I do ask to please pray that all goes well for Jeremy on Monday, as I'm taking him to a sober living facility. As of right now, he's agreed to the 1yr commitment they require, but Monday is still sooooooooo far away.

Week 17

Where do I even start? There is so much to share this week!!

Jeremy has been under my wing everyday since his return to San Diego, and he's been making a lot of changes... or shall I say he's finally allowing GOD to take control and have The Holy Spirit make those changes in his life day by day. Tonight he helped serve for the second week.

My father, mother, and cousin all contributed to the ministry tonight. All of them worked together and made some of the most amazing chili I've ever tasted. They came out and brought 2 giant pots. It was really nice having my family participate in the ministry.

Randy was able to bring along some guests as well. Merry has been a blessing to our ministry for a few weeks and tonight I had the honors of finally meeting this special woman and her delightful children. Tonight Merry made a very large bowl of salad for everyone, of course with a variety of dressings to choose from.

Lisa, our spectacular photographer, blessed us with a large platter of fresh baked cookies. I felt it was necessary (for everyones safety, hehe) to try the cookies before anyone else did. Oh man!

Amanda made the usual Chicken Alfredo and Spaghetti dishes, with Garlic Bread. We could have used another table because our spread was so extreme for a change. The kitchen from our home church donated a couple containers of potato salad. It was a real blessing to offer these men & women a 3-course meal for once. A bowl of chili & salad, Pasta & Bread, then some fresh cookies. As we served, I stood and observed the crowd.... just thanking GOD Almighty for placing it in everyones heart to give what they could to help those down on their luck.

It saddens me, when describing this ministry to others, to see the reactions from some people. The homeless?!?!? Yes, the homeless. GOD touched my heart and has given me compassion for such people and I thank Him everyday for doing so, because I've gotten to know the ones the public does not love. Jesus Christ, himself was homeless: Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." (Matthew 8:20)
I've come to realize that this ministry isn't for everyone and it's increased my thankfulness towards God more so because He's still in control and has chosen us to do His work in this dept.
I certainly didn't ask for this to happen, but GOD knows best, so for now.... here I am.

It was great to be fully staffed tonight with helping hands from my family and Jeremy, which enabled me to move around and speak with people as The Spirit led. I spoke with a troubled young man named Rocco. He's weighed down with severe depression. There's a lot of pain in his soul and is searching for comfort. I shared about the unfailing and everlasting comfort that ONLY Jesus can provide. We prayed together and he joined The Body of Christ tonight. Praise be to Jesus!

Thankfully Spike came early enough to enjoy some food. He was persistent on hearing The Word of GOD spoken tonight through bible study, so after the majority left we sat down in a small circle with Spike, Jeremy, Chicago, and Geoff. We were able to finally wrap up John 2 from weeks ago. Our cities finest did a quick walk through and shared encouraging words with our small group and went on their way to keep the streets safe another night. I ask those reading to please stop and pray for the safety of the Police Officers.

Tonight was a great night! It's 1:06am as I write this. I'm so full of joy seeing what GOD is doing with this ministry that I can't even sleep!!! GOD is so good.

Week 16 (Sunday)

As Jeremy and I pulled upin PB, we saw Chicago and Steven waiting on the wall. We said our good mornings as they enjoyed their hot coffees. I was happy to see Chicago and assumed that he was joining us for service this morning... he held an almost empty garbage bag containing maybe 3 or 4 aluminum cans. He sat and waited on the wall with Steven until I arrived, just to tell me face to face that he wasn't going to make it as he had promised because he needed to try and earn his income for the day. Talk about respect for one another! By 8am, for a homeless man, that's a good 4hrs wasted with a potential of $15 in collecting cans.

We arrived at church early enough to grab our regular seats. I went outside to meet with Amanda, who was still on her way, while the two sat inside. I ran into the brother who promised Jeremy some clothes and he blessed Jeremy with a nice backpack stuffed with all kinds of goodies. Jeremy was blown away later in the afternoon as he discovered how generous the Good Lord had been to him thru this kind man.

The message spoke to all of us. It was our home fellowships turn to assist in the cafe, so I informed Jeremy and Steven that they'd have to wait around until we were thru before I could take them back. Steve opted to walk back down to PB instead of waiting, so we walked to the vehicle so he could retrieve his belongings. He told me how deep the message hit home for him and how he's tired of living the street life. I offered prayer and advised him to pray about the situation.

After cafe duty, we met up with Jeremy... who had plenty of adventurous stories to share in the 3hrs he's had to himself. It is never a dull moment with Jeremy around. We decided to attend the 7pm service at The Rock. That was a powerful message and it was there that Jeremy gave his soul 100% to Jesus Christ during alter call. I informed him that he made an amazing choice and a life changing decision. GOD our Father promises: "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." (Deut. 31:6)