I thank God Almighty for giving us another opportunity to share of His love and minister to all the people of Pacific Beach, in His name!
It was an incredible night. At home, we'd somehow managed to get everything prepared a few minutes earlier than normal, so we headed down about 20 minutes early. Upon arrival, it was no surprise to see our buddy, Ron already waiting by the curb ready to help unload for the evening. He and a few other guys have made things so much easier for us, so we've created a system that rewards them: They get firsts in line once we serve. It's a win/win system!
Our team was in full force, minus Marci (whom we miss)... so it was great to see everyone again. We were blessed by Papa Johns, with 3 cases of individually packed salads to contribute to the meal.
The message shared was based on a devotion written by my Pastor, so I take no credit for it, but it was very powerful and the Lord used that to minister to several people. Afterwards I was given the opportunity to pray with a handful of men, all of which are newcomers.
A few guys that stand out, that I'd like to mention are people like:
Herby, he's suffering from multiple blood clots throughout his legs, and has no money nor insurance to assist. He's afraid of losing his legs someday soon.
Justin, has been homeless for sometime now, but it's by his choice to follow his calling from the Lord, as a missionary to evangelize to the people living on the streets.
Sean, is a tourist from Ireland (another lad with a full blown Irish accent), who came to the States for a year long trip, but until last week was living in the local Hostel... until he was robbed and everything he had was taken from him, including his passport & credit cards. For the past week, he's been sleeping on the sand, with only the clothes on his back, and no blanket to keep him warm.
Sid, (I spent most of the evening with him)... he's a Believer, fairly recent to the street life and wants out before it consumes him. I let him know about the SDRM and what their program is all about. He sounded interested and prayerfully he'll take that step and use that year to dive into discipleship and soaking up the Word of GOD. He's currently not rooted in a home church, and plans to come with me tomorrow to service.
One of our friends, Julie came down to give us a hand, which was a real surprise and blessing for us. GOD used her to bless a few of the people with some brand new blankets, which as I mentioned earlier, where much needed. It has been getting alot colder as winter rolls in, and I can't help but feel guilty, even now - sitting in my warm room - writing this blog entry.
I wish there was something more that could be done, besides handing out hot meals and shampoos. So many are thankful for that, but their eyes cry out for real help, which I am unable to provide.
Would you readers please join me in prayer regarding a huge step of faith. I'm dreaming of a warehouse or shelter, for the ones that sincerely want change can come to as a refuge. I would love the ability to pour out as much time as possible and share the Word of GOD, building each one of them up, all to glorify The King of kings. That is my prayer!!
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Integrity counts for something! (Friday)
With the piece of information I received last week regarding our area being used, I knew I had to speak against that and announce to the crowd that whatever they're doing in our area while we are there, must be put to an immediate stop or else there would be consequences... because no Christian would/should ever compromise their integrity for the sake of anyone else. I'm relieved that the announcement was so well received from the group.
The more I thought about the issue all week, the more I became thankful that we've been given grace from the City/Police, for not enforcing us to get a activity permit for the large gatherings. Whomever is in charge and has the say in the matters, has not pushed the issue to come down on our group. I thank the Lord for keeping that from happening this far.
Last night may have been the biggest crowd yet! The masses of hungry people came in sets, like waves. At one point, I'd given a quick head-count towards the remainder of the line, just to make sure Amanda gave proper portions accordingly... when I returned to give her that number, the line immediately doubled in size!
I met a few interesting people this week:
Michael- Recently new to the streets, grew up Catholic and took notice the to hypocrisy in his own church, now searching for his higher power & doesn't believe the Bible is inspired by GOD.
Ramon- First time guest to our dinner, very friendly, probably a little intoxicated, but showed great gratitude for the free meal and love shown to him and all of his friends.
I was encouraged by a few passer-byers who stopped to check out what was going on, 'Keep up the good work, you guys are doing such a wonderful thing. We can see the joy they have when they are here.' It's really nice to hear positive feedback.
The more I thought about the issue all week, the more I became thankful that we've been given grace from the City/Police, for not enforcing us to get a activity permit for the large gatherings. Whomever is in charge and has the say in the matters, has not pushed the issue to come down on our group. I thank the Lord for keeping that from happening this far.
Last night may have been the biggest crowd yet! The masses of hungry people came in sets, like waves. At one point, I'd given a quick head-count towards the remainder of the line, just to make sure Amanda gave proper portions accordingly... when I returned to give her that number, the line immediately doubled in size!
I met a few interesting people this week:
Michael- Recently new to the streets, grew up Catholic and took notice the to hypocrisy in his own church, now searching for his higher power & doesn't believe the Bible is inspired by GOD.
Ramon- First time guest to our dinner, very friendly, probably a little intoxicated, but showed great gratitude for the free meal and love shown to him and all of his friends.
I was encouraged by a few passer-byers who stopped to check out what was going on, 'Keep up the good work, you guys are doing such a wonderful thing. We can see the joy they have when they are here.' It's really nice to hear positive feedback.
Regarding October 1, 2010 -- Friday
I was unable to personally make it down this day, but the rest of our Ministry team did and I heard everything went well.
Joey shared a message.
I got word that either a Lifeguard or Police Officer came up to our group, and informed them of things being said 'on the streets'. Supposedly the homeless people are letting each other know that we permit alcohol drinking & naracotic use, while our Ministry is happening... all of which is a blantant lie!
Joey shared a message.
I got word that either a Lifeguard or Police Officer came up to our group, and informed them of things being said 'on the streets'. Supposedly the homeless people are letting each other know that we permit alcohol drinking & naracotic use, while our Ministry is happening... all of which is a blantant lie!
Friday, September 24, 2010
God our Father, knows what we need and when we need it...
Our team was not the normal group tonight. We had several people who'd normally be with us on a gorgeous Friday evening, out enjoying some well deserved fun time. Of course my first thoughts would be to figure that we'd be short handed, but silly me and my way of thinking... God is the one who's in control, and He's the one who brings people down there. As was the case this evening. In fact we weren't short handed at all! The Lord gave us a few friends from church to participate in the blessings.
Amanda, in her discerning wisdom, decided to prepare extra food: sandwiches & chips, just in case we were to run out of pasta. Rick, a fellow brother in Christ, contributed by also making a box full of sandwiches & a large bowl of fruit salad.
It turns out we had just enough for everyone to eat this week. This crowd just continues to grow and grow! It's really sad to see so many hungry people standing in line waiting for a meal. I'm reminded why we are there, and when I'm sharing a message, I find myself comforted by the numerous Believers within the giant crowd, nodding in agreement. I look to everyone else and I'm confronted with emptiness in their eyes and growls of hunger from their stomachs. Most aren't listening, they want food... and then I hear that small; still; gentle voice asking me the same question over and over again.
As the food was being served, I joined Jason in some beautiful worship music. I can't even begin to express what it does for the atmosphere down there when worship music is being played. It's so peaceful! Whether or not the crowd understands whom the words are meant for, everyone seems to enjoy it and share smiles as they pass by. The music being sang to the Lord can change a loud, angry man... into the one of the most polite, gentleman. We've seen it happen! There is a newer regular guest, who's known to be rather obnoxious most of the time, but tonight he was so child-like, in the sense that he wanted to be loved and 'fit in'. As Jason was playing his guitar, I noticed this particular man sit right next to Jason, with his own beat up guitar. He watched for the chords being strummed, and attempted to follow along. It was actually quite a sight to see such a difference with this guy! The Lord showed us that it doesn't take preaching in order for Him to begin a good work in anybody.
Amanda, in her discerning wisdom, decided to prepare extra food: sandwiches & chips, just in case we were to run out of pasta. Rick, a fellow brother in Christ, contributed by also making a box full of sandwiches & a large bowl of fruit salad.
It turns out we had just enough for everyone to eat this week. This crowd just continues to grow and grow! It's really sad to see so many hungry people standing in line waiting for a meal. I'm reminded why we are there, and when I'm sharing a message, I find myself comforted by the numerous Believers within the giant crowd, nodding in agreement. I look to everyone else and I'm confronted with emptiness in their eyes and growls of hunger from their stomachs. Most aren't listening, they want food... and then I hear that small; still; gentle voice asking me the same question over and over again.
As the food was being served, I joined Jason in some beautiful worship music. I can't even begin to express what it does for the atmosphere down there when worship music is being played. It's so peaceful! Whether or not the crowd understands whom the words are meant for, everyone seems to enjoy it and share smiles as they pass by. The music being sang to the Lord can change a loud, angry man... into the one of the most polite, gentleman. We've seen it happen! There is a newer regular guest, who's known to be rather obnoxious most of the time, but tonight he was so child-like, in the sense that he wanted to be loved and 'fit in'. As Jason was playing his guitar, I noticed this particular man sit right next to Jason, with his own beat up guitar. He watched for the chords being strummed, and attempted to follow along. It was actually quite a sight to see such a difference with this guy! The Lord showed us that it doesn't take preaching in order for Him to begin a good work in anybody.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
They continue to be fed... (Friday)
I debated whether or not I should share this...
There have been times in the recent past, where we've come to nearly miss coming down to PB with a meal for everyone (due to lack of funds), and literally at the 11th hour, GOD has sent us exactly what we need to purchase everything!
I only mention this, to allow the readers to understand that we (The team of volunteers) are not an organization or any kind. We are not financially supported by 'the church'. I realize it may appear as though we are because of all the helpful hands on site and the spread of food layed out on the tables, but the reality of it... is that we're just a group of regular people that are friends, who happen to attend the same church, that have the same heart to help those in need, and have made ourselves available to be used by GOD. The only reason we are able to continue week after week is through people donating.
During those last minute moments, while sweating bullets... I was asked this question: "Even if you didn't have any physical food, would you still remain faithfull to feed my flock?" I found myself meditating on this question, searching my heart, for what I'd hope to be the truthful answer - Yes Lord, I will still feed your flock.
Whether or not, one would call that a test from GOD, the next thing I heard came from my wife: 'We should get a PO Box, so that others can donate if they like.' So... that is our next step.
***
We'd arrived and had everything set up, with the help our friends, by the time Joey had arrived. He shared the message this week. After he'd given the message, a man who'd been passing-by on the boardwalk, stopped to listen what was being said, came up to him... and Joey had the perfect opportunity to set down and spend nearly an hour pouring out into this man. We then introduced him to our team mate, Ruben to discuss matters. In short, the man now has a desire to come to church.
We had extra help this week! Our dear friend, Mark, came to visit and help us while out from school. His gentle presence alone, brings peace to the environment when he smiles. I love seeing him sit down to spend deep quality time with the guys. Last night was no exception.
Danna spent what seemed like most of the night (I can hardly call it anything more than 30 minutes anymore, because everything happenes so quickly now) one-on-one with our regular friend Alyse. It's beautiful to see the women spending that time with the women down there!
Everybody was fed, spiritual & physically. I'll be honest, it's discouraging at times to see those who disregard others by carelessly dropping their food and trying to grab another... or those few people who grumble and complain because another person got more of something. There seems to be a sense of entitlement down there for some... not all though. We just keep praying that the good Lord will do a mighty work for them.
We had a few conversations with curious people stopping by to see what was going on. Some said they'd like to help out, some inquired about donations. The cool thing is that each time somebody stops by & asks, we get to tell them about the love of Jesus.
There have been times in the recent past, where we've come to nearly miss coming down to PB with a meal for everyone (due to lack of funds), and literally at the 11th hour, GOD has sent us exactly what we need to purchase everything!
I only mention this, to allow the readers to understand that we (The team of volunteers) are not an organization or any kind. We are not financially supported by 'the church'. I realize it may appear as though we are because of all the helpful hands on site and the spread of food layed out on the tables, but the reality of it... is that we're just a group of regular people that are friends, who happen to attend the same church, that have the same heart to help those in need, and have made ourselves available to be used by GOD. The only reason we are able to continue week after week is through people donating.
During those last minute moments, while sweating bullets... I was asked this question: "Even if you didn't have any physical food, would you still remain faithfull to feed my flock?" I found myself meditating on this question, searching my heart, for what I'd hope to be the truthful answer - Yes Lord, I will still feed your flock.
Whether or not, one would call that a test from GOD, the next thing I heard came from my wife: 'We should get a PO Box, so that others can donate if they like.' So... that is our next step.
***
We'd arrived and had everything set up, with the help our friends, by the time Joey had arrived. He shared the message this week. After he'd given the message, a man who'd been passing-by on the boardwalk, stopped to listen what was being said, came up to him... and Joey had the perfect opportunity to set down and spend nearly an hour pouring out into this man. We then introduced him to our team mate, Ruben to discuss matters. In short, the man now has a desire to come to church.
We had extra help this week! Our dear friend, Mark, came to visit and help us while out from school. His gentle presence alone, brings peace to the environment when he smiles. I love seeing him sit down to spend deep quality time with the guys. Last night was no exception.
Danna spent what seemed like most of the night (I can hardly call it anything more than 30 minutes anymore, because everything happenes so quickly now) one-on-one with our regular friend Alyse. It's beautiful to see the women spending that time with the women down there!
Everybody was fed, spiritual & physically. I'll be honest, it's discouraging at times to see those who disregard others by carelessly dropping their food and trying to grab another... or those few people who grumble and complain because another person got more of something. There seems to be a sense of entitlement down there for some... not all though. We just keep praying that the good Lord will do a mighty work for them.
We had a few conversations with curious people stopping by to see what was going on. Some said they'd like to help out, some inquired about donations. The cool thing is that each time somebody stops by & asks, we get to tell them about the love of Jesus.
Friday, September 10, 2010
It's all about love
There are things going on down there that the enemy is using to try and defeat what is happening at the boardwalk. The past few weeks, I've noticed that as we're driving into PB, I see alot more of the regulars hanging out, away from the boardwalk, and I've found myself wondering if they'd forgotten about dinner.
It wasn't until today, that it occurred to me why they're not waiting in line anymore.
The messages! It was no different today... in fact, there were so few people, that I thought people were going to be able to have 3 plates of food each.
The message was given, speaking on love and about sin and the separation of man & GOD because of sin... but as soon as I finished and walked down below, we were flooded with people jumping in line. There went the 3 plates each I'd just considered!
The sad truth is, we ran out of food this week. Our team even brought extra sandwiches (just in case) and those were all handed out too. It was really sad at the end of the evening.... I wasn't aware that we'd run out when I saw a few guys sitting against the curb of a near-by business. I'd asked them if they'd enjoyed their dinner tonight, and out came a stomach-turning response: "We didn't get anything besides a slice of bread to share." I instantly felt guilty and didn't know what to say to that. Sometimes 'Sorry' just doesn't cut it.
Returning week after week, and being obediant to The Lords calling seems extremely easy, when compared to figuring out how we're going to start making enough food for the caliber of people coming these days. Ultimately, I know that before another move is made, we should lift all things to our Heavenly Father, for His direction & provision.
I often find myself reviewing the archive for this blog, and I look back at all of the ups & downs we've had; the miracles that have happened; all of the lives that have been touched... and I'm reminded, that is why we are here. The food is only part of this Ministry, we are sharing something much better than any gourmet chef could ever offer.... and it's Jesus Christ, the Living Bread!
I thank The Lord for the team that He's raised up beside us. I could not ask for a better group of faithful, loving friends to team up with. I'm grateful to be a part of their team. GOD is good!!
It wasn't until today, that it occurred to me why they're not waiting in line anymore.
The messages! It was no different today... in fact, there were so few people, that I thought people were going to be able to have 3 plates of food each.
The message was given, speaking on love and about sin and the separation of man & GOD because of sin... but as soon as I finished and walked down below, we were flooded with people jumping in line. There went the 3 plates each I'd just considered!
The sad truth is, we ran out of food this week. Our team even brought extra sandwiches (just in case) and those were all handed out too. It was really sad at the end of the evening.... I wasn't aware that we'd run out when I saw a few guys sitting against the curb of a near-by business. I'd asked them if they'd enjoyed their dinner tonight, and out came a stomach-turning response: "We didn't get anything besides a slice of bread to share." I instantly felt guilty and didn't know what to say to that. Sometimes 'Sorry' just doesn't cut it.
Returning week after week, and being obediant to The Lords calling seems extremely easy, when compared to figuring out how we're going to start making enough food for the caliber of people coming these days. Ultimately, I know that before another move is made, we should lift all things to our Heavenly Father, for His direction & provision.
I often find myself reviewing the archive for this blog, and I look back at all of the ups & downs we've had; the miracles that have happened; all of the lives that have been touched... and I'm reminded, that is why we are here. The food is only part of this Ministry, we are sharing something much better than any gourmet chef could ever offer.... and it's Jesus Christ, the Living Bread!
I thank The Lord for the team that He's raised up beside us. I could not ask for a better group of faithful, loving friends to team up with. I'm grateful to be a part of their team. GOD is good!!
Friday, September 3, 2010
Getting Personal
Besides the traffic coming into PB, tonight went really smooth.
To start the night off, my buddy Ruben, shared his testimony to a captive audience. He gave a loving & sincere message, and as he spoke, he called out to some of the regulars, by name, which made it a bit more intimate for them. I strongly believe that it's instances like that, that are going to win over their hearts, and give us the guidance to direct them towards the things of GOD.
Thanks to Danna's wonderful idea, we started celebrating birthdays together down there for each month. This week, it just so happened to be one of our very own. Before Ruben finished speaking, he called Amanda out from behind the tables (also out of her comfort zone) and the entire group of maybe 60 people, all joined and we sang "Happy Birthday". It was fun! What I especially liked, was as each person passed down the line for their dinner, they each encouraged Amanda for her cooking and gave her another Happy Birthday wish. There was love for one another in the air tonight, and GOD was there!
We had plenty of friends to help make the team tonight: Ray (who's been a huge help); Joey (now back in town); and of course the awesome duet Danna & Ruben (with their amazing salads, crock pot of meatballs, and their hearts of gold); James (the one who can handle the hygiene & clothes, like no other!)
Towards the latter end of what pasta we had left, 3 young men (early 20's I'd guess) came over and asked how much we were selling the food for. Their eyes lit up with delight when they discovered it was absolutely free. They hustled into the line. As we hung out chit chatting, I learned they were backpacking tourists from Ireland. I enjoyed hearing their thick accents when they spoke. I had the chance to ask them about their beliefs. They believe in Evolution, yet they have a concept of GOD as well. They said that in Ireland, religion is shoved down everyones throats, and they aren't for it. I explained to them about Christianity, and the freedom that we have in Christ... that it's about a personal relationship with Jesus, and not about being bound to follow routines, or bowing to statues. As they listened, I could see them weighing this new found discovery, against what they've known. After 10 minutes of sharing, I asked if I may take their picture, so that my friends and I could continually pray for them, they said sure. Before we parted ways, I had the privilege to pray for Do'nald (Donald), Eghoan (Owen), and Dave right then and there.
A decent amount of people showed interest in attending the City Fest next week, which was awesome to hear. I'll try to get an accurate count next week, so that we can do what we can to make sure they get there.
All went well, and yes we were surprised that being the first Friday of the month, we still had a large number crowd... yet thanks to the addition from Danna's meatballs and salads, everyone was able to eat something tonight.
Everything happened so fast... and that's the way it's been the last few months actually. We were done and packed up by 6:30-6:45pm.
To start the night off, my buddy Ruben, shared his testimony to a captive audience. He gave a loving & sincere message, and as he spoke, he called out to some of the regulars, by name, which made it a bit more intimate for them. I strongly believe that it's instances like that, that are going to win over their hearts, and give us the guidance to direct them towards the things of GOD.
Thanks to Danna's wonderful idea, we started celebrating birthdays together down there for each month. This week, it just so happened to be one of our very own. Before Ruben finished speaking, he called Amanda out from behind the tables (also out of her comfort zone) and the entire group of maybe 60 people, all joined and we sang "Happy Birthday". It was fun! What I especially liked, was as each person passed down the line for their dinner, they each encouraged Amanda for her cooking and gave her another Happy Birthday wish. There was love for one another in the air tonight, and GOD was there!
We had plenty of friends to help make the team tonight: Ray (who's been a huge help); Joey (now back in town); and of course the awesome duet Danna & Ruben (with their amazing salads, crock pot of meatballs, and their hearts of gold); James (the one who can handle the hygiene & clothes, like no other!)
Towards the latter end of what pasta we had left, 3 young men (early 20's I'd guess) came over and asked how much we were selling the food for. Their eyes lit up with delight when they discovered it was absolutely free. They hustled into the line. As we hung out chit chatting, I learned they were backpacking tourists from Ireland. I enjoyed hearing their thick accents when they spoke. I had the chance to ask them about their beliefs. They believe in Evolution, yet they have a concept of GOD as well. They said that in Ireland, religion is shoved down everyones throats, and they aren't for it. I explained to them about Christianity, and the freedom that we have in Christ... that it's about a personal relationship with Jesus, and not about being bound to follow routines, or bowing to statues. As they listened, I could see them weighing this new found discovery, against what they've known. After 10 minutes of sharing, I asked if I may take their picture, so that my friends and I could continually pray for them, they said sure. Before we parted ways, I had the privilege to pray for Do'nald (Donald), Eghoan (Owen), and Dave right then and there.
A decent amount of people showed interest in attending the City Fest next week, which was awesome to hear. I'll try to get an accurate count next week, so that we can do what we can to make sure they get there.
All went well, and yes we were surprised that being the first Friday of the month, we still had a large number crowd... yet thanks to the addition from Danna's meatballs and salads, everyone was able to eat something tonight.
Everything happened so fast... and that's the way it's been the last few months actually. We were done and packed up by 6:30-6:45pm.
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