I'm blown away at the things GOD is doing through this Ministry! The LORD is definitely honoring this Ministry and I'm truly blessed to be a part of it.
I had the privilege of sharing about this Ministry with a group a people from our church earlier in the week. Tonight I was greeted by a familiar face from that group. It was refreshing to see another person step out of their personal comfort zone and see what is happening down in PB. I was even more taken back by another group of fellow Believers, who had come down to bless us with some gifts. These people actually hand-made beanie caps (In sincere love) specifically for our Ministry. I'm at a loss for words to describe my feelings right now. When I had heard them tell me why they had come down, it brought tears to my eyes. The love that has been poured out from so many... is overflowing!
The crowd itself wasn't all that big in numbers tonight, maybe 30 or so. I decided to share something from a devotion my Pastor shared earlier in the week. It was about being thankful for the things that GOD has given you. Just before we served dinner, I asked those that felt comfortable sharing, to share something that they're thankful for.... all in hopes to hear them give thanks to GOD. I'd say 4 out of 9 is a good start.
The food supply lasted for some time tonight and everyone seemed to have enough to eat. We hung out with a handful of guys afterwards, and it was then that I discovered the majority of the group had been discussing GOD among their peers over dinner. It's so exciting to sit back and think what positive effect our efforts have had in this area. There is power in prayer!!!
I met with a new guest, Ssgt. Joshua B. USMC, who is no longer serving. He'd received 6 bullet wounds due to the war and had recently lost his home. He now calls the bushes surrounding Presidio Park his home. Although this new experience is a humbling one for him, he was still full of encouragement. He'd gotten word of our Ministry and made the journey by foot to see what was going on. I'm very glad I did not give up on everyone. (That would have been heartbreaking to know I'd let somebody down like that.) He and I made arrangements to attend church services this Sunday.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Saturday, February 6, 2010
February 5, 2010 ~ God is love!
I took extra precautions this week, due to threats I've heard from others regarding Patrick. (No need for details, but alot of prayer was involved.) To ensure the safety of everyone, we had more men present than any other time before.
Upon arrival, the first person I ran into was Patrick. I kept my distance until other men could join me before I approached him. He wanted to talk. He apologized for his behavior last time and asked for forgiveness. I immediately felt the peace of GOD, as I watched Pat's mouth moving. I confessed my apologies as well, and invited him to join us for supper. He came down for the fellowship, but chose to not eat. (I can only assume he's trying to punish himself by not partaking.)
I'm happy to announce that some of the people from our own home fellowship decided to join us, including other brethren, Jerry and Joey, and of course our favorite photographer & friend, Lisa.
As the night got started, we opened up the EZ-Up tent, which GOD so graciously had provided for such specific times of weather. The group was significantly smaller this week, guessing 10-15 people... probably because they all thought we were finished. It was actually perfect, because everyone was able to gather under the tent for fellowship & dinner.
The message was about GOD, and how GOD is love. The small group was very receptive to GOD, and needless to say, for me, it was an encouraging event. On a wimb, I'd decided to bring a backpack full of Bibles. Six different people received new Bibles last night... not because I shoved them in their face, but because they had asked for them. I can see how GOD uses the ugly things of this world, and turns it around for His glory. Had the event of 2wks ago not happened, then most might assume we're just another church doing our good deeds, but because of what I'd shared last night, the people saw something that's different with us. We are not "just a feed". We are a Ministry, a Ministry of love. A handful of people not tied down to any organization, just people who follow the Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth: "Let us not love in theory or in speech but in deed and in truth (in practice and in sincerity)". 1 John 3:18 I believe that GOD has put the desire in the hearts of these men & women to draw near to Him, to seek Him out... and has, in His perfect plan, somehow used us to help them reach that point.
I am so thankful for all of the counsel I've received in the past 2wks. Had I given up, like I wanted to, I'd have missed out on seeing this beautiful transformation taking place.
We handed out brand new beanie caps and more fleece blankets to others in need. It's nice to have something more than just food to offer to these people who have so little.
A few of the men came to me with praise reports of their own. After months of praying, "Spike" was actually blessed with a car free of charge! A woman had felt the need to donate a car to him, so she did.
John had been working on his health for the past few months, and is no longer a diabetic! He's picked up a side-job, selling coupon booklets for marketing.
Mike, a fellow Christian, had heard such good reports of Jeremy's success and asked if we could pick him up for church this Sunday.
Stephen wasn't around, which tells me that he's in stage 2 at the San Diego Rescue Mission, which is the 1yr residential commitment.
The worst of the weather held back until we were just about finished, so that wasn't really a problem for us.
Upon arrival, the first person I ran into was Patrick. I kept my distance until other men could join me before I approached him. He wanted to talk. He apologized for his behavior last time and asked for forgiveness. I immediately felt the peace of GOD, as I watched Pat's mouth moving. I confessed my apologies as well, and invited him to join us for supper. He came down for the fellowship, but chose to not eat. (I can only assume he's trying to punish himself by not partaking.)
I'm happy to announce that some of the people from our own home fellowship decided to join us, including other brethren, Jerry and Joey, and of course our favorite photographer & friend, Lisa.
As the night got started, we opened up the EZ-Up tent, which GOD so graciously had provided for such specific times of weather. The group was significantly smaller this week, guessing 10-15 people... probably because they all thought we were finished. It was actually perfect, because everyone was able to gather under the tent for fellowship & dinner.
The message was about GOD, and how GOD is love. The small group was very receptive to GOD, and needless to say, for me, it was an encouraging event. On a wimb, I'd decided to bring a backpack full of Bibles. Six different people received new Bibles last night... not because I shoved them in their face, but because they had asked for them. I can see how GOD uses the ugly things of this world, and turns it around for His glory. Had the event of 2wks ago not happened, then most might assume we're just another church doing our good deeds, but because of what I'd shared last night, the people saw something that's different with us. We are not "just a feed". We are a Ministry, a Ministry of love. A handful of people not tied down to any organization, just people who follow the Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth: "Let us not love in theory or in speech but in deed and in truth (in practice and in sincerity)". 1 John 3:18 I believe that GOD has put the desire in the hearts of these men & women to draw near to Him, to seek Him out... and has, in His perfect plan, somehow used us to help them reach that point.
I am so thankful for all of the counsel I've received in the past 2wks. Had I given up, like I wanted to, I'd have missed out on seeing this beautiful transformation taking place.
We handed out brand new beanie caps and more fleece blankets to others in need. It's nice to have something more than just food to offer to these people who have so little.
A few of the men came to me with praise reports of their own. After months of praying, "Spike" was actually blessed with a car free of charge! A woman had felt the need to donate a car to him, so she did.
John had been working on his health for the past few months, and is no longer a diabetic! He's picked up a side-job, selling coupon booklets for marketing.
Mike, a fellow Christian, had heard such good reports of Jeremy's success and asked if we could pick him up for church this Sunday.
Stephen wasn't around, which tells me that he's in stage 2 at the San Diego Rescue Mission, which is the 1yr residential commitment.
The worst of the weather held back until we were just about finished, so that wasn't really a problem for us.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
**UPDATE** February 3, 2010
After spending the past 2 weeks deep in prayer for direction and discernment, we have decided to continue in Pacific Beach. The time will remain at 5pm.
If you'd like to participate and show support for Loving Thy Neighbor Ministry, please arrive no later than 5pm, as we like to open the evening in a word of prayer together.
Due to the problem that we've been dealing with, we've run low on certain items because of not going to the store for supplies. Items that we will be needing shortly are: Plastic forks; Bottled water; and any food to supplement the meal, such as fresh fruits, salad, or desserts.
Please let me be the first to apologize to everyone who has followed along. This experience is something that I myself have learned from and through the love of Jesus Christ and counsel from the Body of Christ... I've grown.
It's very possible from this point on, that security might be needed for any possible future outbreaks. Please keep us in your prayers.
We will be back this Friday (February 5, 2010).
Thank you all and GOD bless each of you!
"Greater is He who is in me, than he who is in the world!" (1 John 4:4)
If you'd like to participate and show support for Loving Thy Neighbor Ministry, please arrive no later than 5pm, as we like to open the evening in a word of prayer together.
Due to the problem that we've been dealing with, we've run low on certain items because of not going to the store for supplies. Items that we will be needing shortly are: Plastic forks; Bottled water; and any food to supplement the meal, such as fresh fruits, salad, or desserts.
Please let me be the first to apologize to everyone who has followed along. This experience is something that I myself have learned from and through the love of Jesus Christ and counsel from the Body of Christ... I've grown.
It's very possible from this point on, that security might be needed for any possible future outbreaks. Please keep us in your prayers.
We will be back this Friday (February 5, 2010).
Thank you all and GOD bless each of you!
"Greater is He who is in me, than he who is in the world!" (1 John 4:4)
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Friday ~ January 22, 2010
Prayers were answered this week. GOD is always faithful, even when we are not.
We were able to borrow an EZ-Up canopy for the weather, which we ended up not needing after all. It was comforting knowing that should we have needed it, we had it with us.
Due to the weather condition and the uncertainty of exactly how many people would be showing up for the meal, we thought it would be best to not waste finances with left over food. A friend was able to donate enough pizza for the evening instead.
As the timing has been changed for quite some time now, we had a group of 20 people waiting in line when we arrived. There was enough pizza available for each individual to actually fill their empty stomachs. The pizza went quickly, probably within the first 15 minutes. We hung out chatting with those that stuck around, until close to 5:45pm.
One of the men, whom we've had repeated problems with arrives and notices the food is already gone. He starts throwing conspiracy accusations at me, cussing me out, and physically threatening me. He was so upset because there was nothing left for him to eat. We had to cut the night very short, very quickly.
As I had mentioned last week, there is an ugly spiritual attack on this Ministry. I realize the anger coming from that man last night, was coming directly from the enemy of GOD, the Father of Lies. I'm only human and every man has his weakpoint. When my life is being physically threatened, I'm afraid that is my weakpoint.
I'm ashamed to admit it, but I'm too weak to continue in this environment, dealing with this particular individual. Having said that... I'm more than happy to continue picking up the guys that truly want to grow closer to GOD through church, but we will no longer be bringing food to the boardwalk.
I'm so very thankful for all who have kept us in their prayers and have given us tremendous support. I ask that the prayers continue for the lost souls of Pacific Beach.
We were able to borrow an EZ-Up canopy for the weather, which we ended up not needing after all. It was comforting knowing that should we have needed it, we had it with us.
Due to the weather condition and the uncertainty of exactly how many people would be showing up for the meal, we thought it would be best to not waste finances with left over food. A friend was able to donate enough pizza for the evening instead.
As the timing has been changed for quite some time now, we had a group of 20 people waiting in line when we arrived. There was enough pizza available for each individual to actually fill their empty stomachs. The pizza went quickly, probably within the first 15 minutes. We hung out chatting with those that stuck around, until close to 5:45pm.
One of the men, whom we've had repeated problems with arrives and notices the food is already gone. He starts throwing conspiracy accusations at me, cussing me out, and physically threatening me. He was so upset because there was nothing left for him to eat. We had to cut the night very short, very quickly.
As I had mentioned last week, there is an ugly spiritual attack on this Ministry. I realize the anger coming from that man last night, was coming directly from the enemy of GOD, the Father of Lies. I'm only human and every man has his weakpoint. When my life is being physically threatened, I'm afraid that is my weakpoint.
I'm ashamed to admit it, but I'm too weak to continue in this environment, dealing with this particular individual. Having said that... I'm more than happy to continue picking up the guys that truly want to grow closer to GOD through church, but we will no longer be bringing food to the boardwalk.
I'm so very thankful for all who have kept us in their prayers and have given us tremendous support. I ask that the prayers continue for the lost souls of Pacific Beach.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
January 15, 2010
There's no doubt that there's a spiritual battle going on around us, between good and evil. We caught a very small glimpse of it last night. We need more prayer support for this very reason.
We finally were able to run into Chicago, after a few months of repeated over night visits to the County Jail. He was in bad shape: physically, emotionally, and spiritually. He stores so much pain inside and washes it down the any booze he can.
The group seems to like hearing Bible stories and give enough respect to gather together as we open the night in prayer and they listen silently (for the most part). I'm holding fast to the promise that GOD's word does not return void.
The food went quickly as everyone passed down the make-line. We had help from Joey, and Mary Clo, a friend from our home fellowship. The Ministry was blessed with salads from a local restaurant
We did not see the family that had attended last week, and others had asked about Jeremy because they'd heard he was alive and doing well. Many had presumed he'd passed away due to his alcoholism.
My current struggle is trying to figure out how to prepare for the big storm they say will hit San Diego next week, including Friday. All I can do is fall on my knees and pray that direction would be given as to our next step. (We have yet to obtain any EZ ups)
We finally were able to run into Chicago, after a few months of repeated over night visits to the County Jail. He was in bad shape: physically, emotionally, and spiritually. He stores so much pain inside and washes it down the any booze he can.
The group seems to like hearing Bible stories and give enough respect to gather together as we open the night in prayer and they listen silently (for the most part). I'm holding fast to the promise that GOD's word does not return void.
The food went quickly as everyone passed down the make-line. We had help from Joey, and Mary Clo, a friend from our home fellowship. The Ministry was blessed with salads from a local restaurant
We did not see the family that had attended last week, and others had asked about Jeremy because they'd heard he was alive and doing well. Many had presumed he'd passed away due to his alcoholism.
My current struggle is trying to figure out how to prepare for the big storm they say will hit San Diego next week, including Friday. All I can do is fall on my knees and pray that direction would be given as to our next step. (We have yet to obtain any EZ ups)
Friday, January 8, 2010
January 8, 2010
Tonight my heart is deeply troubled. I've experienced something new that I hope to never witness again, and Lord willing, I can help find a solution so that it doesn't need to be this way.
In line stood a hungry family of 6: Father, Mother, a 9y/o daughter, and three sons, ages 8, 2, and 1y/o. The family has been living in their SUV since April of 2009, when the father, Gary lost his job from the local moving company. The mother, Ruby, does her best to keep the kids clean and educated, still attending elementary school. The family is afraid of being seperated should they enter into a shelter. The family has become well acquainted with the places that offer free food. It was through one of these places, that another church puts together. That particular church has been making the 45min drive to pick the family up every Sunday for services. The family have put their faith in our Lord Jesus Christ during these difficult times. I urge all believers that stumble across this blog to please pray for this family. The father is completely sober and desires to work again. As I stood speaking with him, I could see the sorrow, guilt, disappointment, and pain in his eyes. My heart goes out to this family and I wish there was something more that I could do to help them!
I gave my testimony tonight, and the Lord used it to speak to 2 of the men. "Guitar Billy" made a personal choice to accept Christ into his heart. Prior to his profession tonight, Billy was playing some Christ centered songs on the boardwalk for us while we were setting up. Ron, the other guy, has been walking in the faith for some time. He's one of the gentleman who has ritually helped us unload our truck upon arrival each week. Ron desires a deeper, more intimate walk with Jesus, so we prayed together asking GOD to bless him and strengthen his own walk.
We were blessed to have a familiar face walk up to us. I hadn't seen the guy for awhile, and he came to tell us what awesome changes have taken place in his life. He's been sober for almost a month now, living in a sober living facility near by, and wanted to encourage us. He said that it was because of our 'positive attitudes' that helped him make the changes. He told us that our witness is having a bigger impact on the lives of those we minister to, than we could ever imagine. It was really nice to hear such positive feedback for once. The guy didn't even come to eat the free food, he literally just came down to encourage us, and then he bailed for an AA meeting. What a trip!
It was nice to have the luxury of walking around and speaking to our guests, due to the help we had from Jerry and Joey doing the serving with Amanda.
In line stood a hungry family of 6: Father, Mother, a 9y/o daughter, and three sons, ages 8, 2, and 1y/o. The family has been living in their SUV since April of 2009, when the father, Gary lost his job from the local moving company. The mother, Ruby, does her best to keep the kids clean and educated, still attending elementary school. The family is afraid of being seperated should they enter into a shelter. The family has become well acquainted with the places that offer free food. It was through one of these places, that another church puts together. That particular church has been making the 45min drive to pick the family up every Sunday for services. The family have put their faith in our Lord Jesus Christ during these difficult times. I urge all believers that stumble across this blog to please pray for this family. The father is completely sober and desires to work again. As I stood speaking with him, I could see the sorrow, guilt, disappointment, and pain in his eyes. My heart goes out to this family and I wish there was something more that I could do to help them!
I gave my testimony tonight, and the Lord used it to speak to 2 of the men. "Guitar Billy" made a personal choice to accept Christ into his heart. Prior to his profession tonight, Billy was playing some Christ centered songs on the boardwalk for us while we were setting up. Ron, the other guy, has been walking in the faith for some time. He's one of the gentleman who has ritually helped us unload our truck upon arrival each week. Ron desires a deeper, more intimate walk with Jesus, so we prayed together asking GOD to bless him and strengthen his own walk.
We were blessed to have a familiar face walk up to us. I hadn't seen the guy for awhile, and he came to tell us what awesome changes have taken place in his life. He's been sober for almost a month now, living in a sober living facility near by, and wanted to encourage us. He said that it was because of our 'positive attitudes' that helped him make the changes. He told us that our witness is having a bigger impact on the lives of those we minister to, than we could ever imagine. It was really nice to hear such positive feedback for once. The guy didn't even come to eat the free food, he literally just came down to encourage us, and then he bailed for an AA meeting. What a trip!
It was nice to have the luxury of walking around and speaking to our guests, due to the help we had from Jerry and Joey doing the serving with Amanda.
The food went very fast, which enabled Amanda to spend time one on one with a few people. They all love her... and so do I, lol. She spent about 30mins speaking with "Wheelchair Johnny". He's paralyzed because a drunk driver crashed into him while he was driving to work one early morning. He's in alot of pain. His hands have callus from his extensive travels in his wheelchair.
He's a very likable guy. I hope to spend more time with him and getting him to come to church with us.
I'm grateful for the small things in life, that one would normally not think about. This ministry has helped open my eyes in so many ways. It's no longer just about the homeless! The ministry has effected the lives of so many differant people from so many differant paths of life.
Gloria a Dios!!!!
Friday, January 1, 2010
New Years Day ~ Jan 01, 2010
There was an undeniable presence of GOD tonight. His spirit was at work with everyone around!
Throughout the last 2 weeks, we've been blessed with donations of many sorts, including homemade blankets from Fleece materials and Beanies.... tonight we made great use of those items.
Amanda and I were blessed to have some assistance tonight from some of our friends at church, Jerry and Talisa. It's always a special treat when others come out with us. Our fellow sister in Christ, Mary Clo, joined us too.
I discovered something new today... When I had asked why there were so many people missing from our usual size, I was told that majority of them get hotel rooms at the first of each month with whatever SSI they receive. It's comforting to know that some of them are off the streets, even if it is temporary.
The group of maybe 30 or so, politely bowed their hearts as we all said grace together, and listened to a message that had been prepared. I trust that the Holy Spirit will continue to use the message to penetrate the souls of the people. I'm personally comforted because I know GOD's promise, that His word will never return void.
Jerry and I got to spend some one on one time with a newcomer, named Kyle. He does not believe in GOD, but rather Evolution. We were able to share with him some facts about the theory he trusts, and encouraged him to "investigate" into Jesus. He said he would and looked forward to seeing us next week. Before we parted ways, I was able to convince him to take a small Bible Tract with him to read.
It was great to be back down there. It's wierd how 2 weeks away can feel so long ago. I realize with this ministry, there is going to be alot of relationships made between us, and that someday those would disappear and move on. Ryan, one of the guys who got baptized a few months back, is moving back home to Georgia, and I'm actually saddened by this. We may not have hung out as friends, but I will miss him.
Amanda was able to spend time ministering to some of the females, as well.
One of our regulars told me that he's a musician, and plans to play worhsip music for us sometime soon. I look forward to that! It' ll definately be a nice addition to the ministry to have constant worship music available.
As of right now, I plan to pick up 3 men for church this Sunday morning... I can only pray that nothing hinders that from actually falling into place and letting it happen as planned.
GOD is so awesome! I wish it were so easy for others to just see it.
I pray that today, as the New Year is getting started, many souls will accept this truth:
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! ~ 2 Corinthians 5:17
Throughout the last 2 weeks, we've been blessed with donations of many sorts, including homemade blankets from Fleece materials and Beanies.... tonight we made great use of those items.
Amanda and I were blessed to have some assistance tonight from some of our friends at church, Jerry and Talisa. It's always a special treat when others come out with us. Our fellow sister in Christ, Mary Clo, joined us too.
I discovered something new today... When I had asked why there were so many people missing from our usual size, I was told that majority of them get hotel rooms at the first of each month with whatever SSI they receive. It's comforting to know that some of them are off the streets, even if it is temporary.
The group of maybe 30 or so, politely bowed their hearts as we all said grace together, and listened to a message that had been prepared. I trust that the Holy Spirit will continue to use the message to penetrate the souls of the people. I'm personally comforted because I know GOD's promise, that His word will never return void.
Jerry and I got to spend some one on one time with a newcomer, named Kyle. He does not believe in GOD, but rather Evolution. We were able to share with him some facts about the theory he trusts, and encouraged him to "investigate" into Jesus. He said he would and looked forward to seeing us next week. Before we parted ways, I was able to convince him to take a small Bible Tract with him to read.
It was great to be back down there. It's wierd how 2 weeks away can feel so long ago. I realize with this ministry, there is going to be alot of relationships made between us, and that someday those would disappear and move on. Ryan, one of the guys who got baptized a few months back, is moving back home to Georgia, and I'm actually saddened by this. We may not have hung out as friends, but I will miss him.
Amanda was able to spend time ministering to some of the females, as well.
One of our regulars told me that he's a musician, and plans to play worhsip music for us sometime soon. I look forward to that! It' ll definately be a nice addition to the ministry to have constant worship music available.
As of right now, I plan to pick up 3 men for church this Sunday morning... I can only pray that nothing hinders that from actually falling into place and letting it happen as planned.
GOD is so awesome! I wish it were so easy for others to just see it.
I pray that today, as the New Year is getting started, many souls will accept this truth:
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! ~ 2 Corinthians 5:17
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