Tonight was very special. It reminded me of the beginning stages of this Ministry, when we used to hang out and just fellowship with a few of the guys. After all the hustle & bustle of the evening, it was just some sweet down to earth conversations and getting to know each other on a personal level.
With word spreading about out gatherings, churches and other organizations have included us on a list, without our consent and that has been drawing the larger crowds more regularly. Those large crowds keep us from having that intimate time building relationships with our neighbors.
There was a wave of new faces tonight. The way I've been looking at that is like this... I have no clue if those people will ever return, so this might be my one & only chance to share Jesus with them, so I go for it. I must take every opportunity that GOD puts before me, and use it for Him. It's too easy to get caught up in doing something nice or good, and forget the main goal. I do not want to be the one to let that slip.
The message came from Luke 14:24-35. I also shared a testimony of a martyred church group from North Korea. The story was from the book Jesus Freaks. I feel that story along with the message touched alot of people tonight. A handful of people asked where they can get the book. It's encouraging to see people taking a deeper interest in hearing about our faith.
The LORD has been so faithful to the Ministry... especially lately... actually He's never been any less faithful, but it is us who are now seeing His blessings from other angles. We serve a GOD who is far beyond greater than any of us could ever put into words. It is a true blessing for our team to represent Him through this Ministry of love. My prayer is that many more would come to know Him through it. So many lives have already, but there will always be more who do not yet know.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Friday, October 21, 2011
Psalm 25:4-11
His word says: Show me Your ways, LORD, teach me Your paths. Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are God my Savior, and my hope is in You all day long. Remember, LORD, Your great mercy and love, for they are from of old. Do not remember the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to Your love remember me, for You, LORD, are good. Good and upright is the LORD; therefore He instructs sinners in His ways. He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way. All the ways of the LORD are loving and faithful toward those who keep the demands of His covenant. For the sake of Your name, LORD, forgive my iniquity, though it is great.
The LORD has given us such a beautiful gift. The free gift of Salvation & Forgiveness through His Son, Jesus Christ. It is by His power that lives are transformed!
Earlier in the week, I was blessed to speak with the Horizon Christian Academy student body. It was there that I shared how the LORD Jesus Christ worked in my own life, and how He is now using this wretched man, to show love to a less desirable group of people. Yesterday our Ministry was blessed far more than we could have ever imagined, by the youth of the Academy. They graciously gave to the Ministry, which will help further the work we are doing. I am personally very grateful for the generosity they showed us. We look forward to working with the student body in the future!
Tonight our good brother, Jeremy came along. Most who follow our blog should recall Jeremy. His life now is such a tremendous encouragement to those he used to drink with on the beach. The LORD has been doing awesome things in his life. He is maturing in the LORD each day, and I'm sooooo blessed to see the fruits of our labor.
We had another near record breaking attendance again. Thankfully the LORD put it on Amanda's heart to make additional food tonight. I'd guess we were just shy of 200 people tonight. As this Ministry takes on a life of itself, it's really cool to watch everything work together so well. Our volunteer team has grown. Our financial support has multiplied, simply by word of mouth. We have faithful people praying for us as we serve and throughout the week.
Not a single mouth went away hungry, nor did anybody walk away without hearing the Word of GOD with direction how to receive eternal forgiveness. I thank GOD that He has given me such boldness in these days. It's very encouraging to conquer my own silly fears and reap the benefits of people sharing how the message GOD has put on my heart, has touched them in a certain way.
I'm thankful for GOD's unfailing love. I'm thankful for His faithful direction & instruction. I'm thankful that GOD has found anything in me to use for His sake, no matter how difficult it was for me. I'm thankful for the cross and the life He paid...
My prayer is for others to see that we indeed are different then this world, and a curiosity would stir in their hearts, and a door would open allowing us to share of Him, The Author of Salvation!
The LORD has given us such a beautiful gift. The free gift of Salvation & Forgiveness through His Son, Jesus Christ. It is by His power that lives are transformed!
Earlier in the week, I was blessed to speak with the Horizon Christian Academy student body. It was there that I shared how the LORD Jesus Christ worked in my own life, and how He is now using this wretched man, to show love to a less desirable group of people. Yesterday our Ministry was blessed far more than we could have ever imagined, by the youth of the Academy. They graciously gave to the Ministry, which will help further the work we are doing. I am personally very grateful for the generosity they showed us. We look forward to working with the student body in the future!
Tonight our good brother, Jeremy came along. Most who follow our blog should recall Jeremy. His life now is such a tremendous encouragement to those he used to drink with on the beach. The LORD has been doing awesome things in his life. He is maturing in the LORD each day, and I'm sooooo blessed to see the fruits of our labor.
We had another near record breaking attendance again. Thankfully the LORD put it on Amanda's heart to make additional food tonight. I'd guess we were just shy of 200 people tonight. As this Ministry takes on a life of itself, it's really cool to watch everything work together so well. Our volunteer team has grown. Our financial support has multiplied, simply by word of mouth. We have faithful people praying for us as we serve and throughout the week.
Not a single mouth went away hungry, nor did anybody walk away without hearing the Word of GOD with direction how to receive eternal forgiveness. I thank GOD that He has given me such boldness in these days. It's very encouraging to conquer my own silly fears and reap the benefits of people sharing how the message GOD has put on my heart, has touched them in a certain way.
I'm thankful for GOD's unfailing love. I'm thankful for His faithful direction & instruction. I'm thankful that GOD has found anything in me to use for His sake, no matter how difficult it was for me. I'm thankful for the cross and the life He paid...
My prayer is for others to see that we indeed are different then this world, and a curiosity would stir in their hearts, and a door would open allowing us to share of Him, The Author of Salvation!
Friday, October 14, 2011
His Spirit was present...
Peaceful is the only word that I can use to best describe tonight.
Not only was there peace, in the sense of no violent outbreaks or loud foul mouthed slander, but a genuine peace was present that only GOD could provide, as if He came down from Heaven and was sitting among us. I can't think of any other way to put it.
Both Amanda and myself were somewhat frazzled in route to PB, because we knew ahead of time that our team was going to be short handed at least 6 people this week. (Every helping hand really counts here.) But of course, that was our stupid flesh thinking inside a small box...
Upon arrival, we saw some familiar faces who decided to come down to help out. The Lord used my mistake, to bring somebody else to the Ministry to drop off a utensil, and she was led to help serve with us once she saw what was going on.
There are many news faces in the crowd these days. It seems that if you're going to be in a season of living on the streets, San Diego is the ideal place to do so. Lots of folks come from out of state just to enjoy this weather.
I met a fellow brother in Christ, named Charles. He walked here from (I think) Tennessee! He knew the only reason he was able to survive the journey was because Jesus was with him. I'm going to enjoy getting to know Charles more throughout time.
A few of the guys are interested in coming to church with us. I sincerely pray that GOD would not allow the enemy to hinder that from happening. It has been awhile since anyone has come with us.
There is some fruit bearing from the Ministry, although we would love to see more, we will gladly accept what we have so far. GOD is still working in PB and we have no plans to go anywhere until He decides to move us.
Not only was there peace, in the sense of no violent outbreaks or loud foul mouthed slander, but a genuine peace was present that only GOD could provide, as if He came down from Heaven and was sitting among us. I can't think of any other way to put it.
Both Amanda and myself were somewhat frazzled in route to PB, because we knew ahead of time that our team was going to be short handed at least 6 people this week. (Every helping hand really counts here.) But of course, that was our stupid flesh thinking inside a small box...
Upon arrival, we saw some familiar faces who decided to come down to help out. The Lord used my mistake, to bring somebody else to the Ministry to drop off a utensil, and she was led to help serve with us once she saw what was going on.
There are many news faces in the crowd these days. It seems that if you're going to be in a season of living on the streets, San Diego is the ideal place to do so. Lots of folks come from out of state just to enjoy this weather.
I met a fellow brother in Christ, named Charles. He walked here from (I think) Tennessee! He knew the only reason he was able to survive the journey was because Jesus was with him. I'm going to enjoy getting to know Charles more throughout time.
A few of the guys are interested in coming to church with us. I sincerely pray that GOD would not allow the enemy to hinder that from happening. It has been awhile since anyone has come with us.
There is some fruit bearing from the Ministry, although we would love to see more, we will gladly accept what we have so far. GOD is still working in PB and we have no plans to go anywhere until He decides to move us.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Psalm 136
His love endures forever!
His provision came through the donation of our church kitchen this week. Tonight we served a few hundred hot dogs, accompanied with fresh salad, home-made macaroni salad, and potato salad. Every once in awhile, the change up is nice. The donation was helpful, not only for our budget but for the sake of giving Amanda a break, as she's been carrying a heavy load lately.
Danna spent time with a gentleman named Frank. He's observed us over the time and finally came to speak with us this afternoon. Frank donated a bunch of clothing to the Ministry.
I'm confident to say that each member of our team has been called to this Ministry, and I thank GOD the Father for their faithfulness. This is a Ministry of love. That being said, GOD really stretches our patience at times to see how we will react to circumstances. I myself still struggle with certain people we serve, but by His strength I am able to endure.
What I noticed tonight was, more and more people are talking about GOD down there now. Before, the majority was about booze or whatever. It is a great honor to partake in such a cool change for the sake of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Amen!
His provision came through the donation of our church kitchen this week. Tonight we served a few hundred hot dogs, accompanied with fresh salad, home-made macaroni salad, and potato salad. Every once in awhile, the change up is nice. The donation was helpful, not only for our budget but for the sake of giving Amanda a break, as she's been carrying a heavy load lately.
Danna spent time with a gentleman named Frank. He's observed us over the time and finally came to speak with us this afternoon. Frank donated a bunch of clothing to the Ministry.
I'm confident to say that each member of our team has been called to this Ministry, and I thank GOD the Father for their faithfulness. This is a Ministry of love. That being said, GOD really stretches our patience at times to see how we will react to circumstances. I myself still struggle with certain people we serve, but by His strength I am able to endure.
What I noticed tonight was, more and more people are talking about GOD down there now. Before, the majority was about booze or whatever. It is a great honor to partake in such a cool change for the sake of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Amen!
Saturday, October 1, 2011
He will never leave us nor forsake us, but will bless us...
I think every person in attendance, both volunteer and dinner guest would agree that last night was the most positive and peaceful night we've ever had. The waves seemed to calm, almost as if we were at a lake... the crowd stood silently as GOD's Word was shared. The sweetest and most genuine thing ever happened too... I'd shared a recent miracle that happened in my own life, and our neighbors applauded out of genuine sincerity. That alone was very touching for me.
We had extra hands on deck last night, which is always a blessing because the more Believers we have, the more we are free to mobilize and minister as lead by The Holy Spirit of GOD. We don't always have that capability, so it's really nice when we do. There is always a desire from the people to pray with them or simply sit back and allow them to share their story. Homeless or not, we all enjoy conversation, and this gives them an opportunity to partake in such.
We handed out 8 or 9 Bibles to those who wanted them. I'm thankful that we had some with us.
The worship music was amazing and encouraging as it grew into a small jam session with multiple instruments last night. Jason had his acoustic guitar, Eddie brought down his cajon, and one of our guests joined in with his tambourine and then some bongos, while the a handful of us sang praises unto The Lord.
Our gathering wasn't as big as last week, so a few people were able to have a second plate of food. I can't help but wonder what GOD has in store for this Ministry. Over all, majority of the attitudes (and hopefully the hearts) of the homeless community has changed for the positive having heard about Jesus and how He loves them.
Some still have their struggles to addiction, but now they have something hopeful to look forward to if they make the choice to change (surrender). GOD can not lie, what He says is a promise... and His Word says: "As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you." (Joshua 1:5)
We had extra hands on deck last night, which is always a blessing because the more Believers we have, the more we are free to mobilize and minister as lead by The Holy Spirit of GOD. We don't always have that capability, so it's really nice when we do. There is always a desire from the people to pray with them or simply sit back and allow them to share their story. Homeless or not, we all enjoy conversation, and this gives them an opportunity to partake in such.
We handed out 8 or 9 Bibles to those who wanted them. I'm thankful that we had some with us.
The worship music was amazing and encouraging as it grew into a small jam session with multiple instruments last night. Jason had his acoustic guitar, Eddie brought down his cajon, and one of our guests joined in with his tambourine and then some bongos, while the a handful of us sang praises unto The Lord.
Our gathering wasn't as big as last week, so a few people were able to have a second plate of food. I can't help but wonder what GOD has in store for this Ministry. Over all, majority of the attitudes (and hopefully the hearts) of the homeless community has changed for the positive having heard about Jesus and how He loves them.
Some still have their struggles to addiction, but now they have something hopeful to look forward to if they make the choice to change (surrender). GOD can not lie, what He says is a promise... and His Word says: "As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you." (Joshua 1:5)
Friday, September 23, 2011
Jesus ministered to so many....
The gathering tonight was a huge record breaking attendance: 204
Obviously we didn't plan for that size, but in all her wisdom from the kitchen, Amanda made additional pan of pasta, and that was perfect up until the very last plate... every person was able to eat tonight, and whether or not they chose to indulge in His Word, some feasted and some nibbled.
The things that Jesus does through this Ministry trip me out! Being that we are set up in the complete wide openness of Pacific Beach (one of San Diego's most popular beaches), we are constantly being observed by tourists on vacation, or the locals out walking their dogs... and so many people are totally blown away by what they see. It's really cool for us to not only tell them about Jesus, but it's something they can visually see too. It seems like every week, I meet a person or two who are interested in getting involved somehow/someway. Tonight I met a local couple who have a large amount of clothes they'd like to contribute towards the Ministry. They said they'd rather see where it's going, rather than hand it over to a charity.
Our guest line for dinner is possibly getting too big. I took a look while the food was being served and although we have the outcove as our stationary position, the line wrapped up the stairs and clear onto the boardwalk. I'm afraid that it's only a matter of time...
Talking with a brother from our church tonight, who came to bless us with some photos, he brought up a valid point that had never crossed my mind before. Yes there are those who walk by, and show signs of possible disapproval because it might possibly be due to self conviction.
I'm not an advocate for the Homeless population. I am an advocate for Jesus Christ and spreading His love to those the world has no pity on. I sincerely pray that GOD would have mercy on the souls of those who discriminate such people for their lack of shelter. Not all people on the streets are drug addicts, not all are drunkards, not all are Schizophrenic, not all are lazy, not all are violent... but yes, all of them need Jesus just like the person living next door to you, or the person standing in line behind you at Starbucks... and that is why we have been called.
Obviously we didn't plan for that size, but in all her wisdom from the kitchen, Amanda made additional pan of pasta, and that was perfect up until the very last plate... every person was able to eat tonight, and whether or not they chose to indulge in His Word, some feasted and some nibbled.
The things that Jesus does through this Ministry trip me out! Being that we are set up in the complete wide openness of Pacific Beach (one of San Diego's most popular beaches), we are constantly being observed by tourists on vacation, or the locals out walking their dogs... and so many people are totally blown away by what they see. It's really cool for us to not only tell them about Jesus, but it's something they can visually see too. It seems like every week, I meet a person or two who are interested in getting involved somehow/someway. Tonight I met a local couple who have a large amount of clothes they'd like to contribute towards the Ministry. They said they'd rather see where it's going, rather than hand it over to a charity.
Our guest line for dinner is possibly getting too big. I took a look while the food was being served and although we have the outcove as our stationary position, the line wrapped up the stairs and clear onto the boardwalk. I'm afraid that it's only a matter of time...
Talking with a brother from our church tonight, who came to bless us with some photos, he brought up a valid point that had never crossed my mind before. Yes there are those who walk by, and show signs of possible disapproval because it might possibly be due to self conviction.
I'm not an advocate for the Homeless population. I am an advocate for Jesus Christ and spreading His love to those the world has no pity on. I sincerely pray that GOD would have mercy on the souls of those who discriminate such people for their lack of shelter. Not all people on the streets are drug addicts, not all are drunkards, not all are Schizophrenic, not all are lazy, not all are violent... but yes, all of them need Jesus just like the person living next door to you, or the person standing in line behind you at Starbucks... and that is why we have been called.
We all need Jesus. Know Jesus, Know Peace... No Jesus, No Peace. Plainly put.
Friday, September 16, 2011
The battle belongs to The LORD...
A few interesting things, small as they might seem, are worth mentioning. Not because of the acts in which they happened, but to shed light into the fact that there is a spiritual war going on around us...
One of the regulars, came just shy of rebuking us (LTN) for being there while in route to the line... but once in the line, this individual was a completely different and grateful man... even thanking us for being there.
Another man, known to be a problem among the homeless community was violent and harsh. He jump down from above, behind our tables spitting and grabbing things that were not his. He even pulled a knife out when I asked to speak with him privately.
I thank the good LORD for keeping us safe and for not allowing us to see how much He protects us from the enemy.
Other than those two events, it was another night where Jesus was able to let His light shine through this Ministry.
One of the regulars, came just shy of rebuking us (LTN) for being there while in route to the line... but once in the line, this individual was a completely different and grateful man... even thanking us for being there.
Another man, known to be a problem among the homeless community was violent and harsh. He jump down from above, behind our tables spitting and grabbing things that were not his. He even pulled a knife out when I asked to speak with him privately.
I thank the good LORD for keeping us safe and for not allowing us to see how much He protects us from the enemy.
Other than those two events, it was another night where Jesus was able to let His light shine through this Ministry.
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