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.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Saturday, August 22, 2009
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.
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.
Monday, August 17, 2009
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)
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)
Week 16 (Saturday)
With the back up of Chicago, Jeremy, and Steven we were able to bless our Campus Service brethren with setting up for service. Things went smoothly, it was great. All was rather organized and friendly with each other. I had the opportunity to continually share scripture in conversations throughout our time in passing. In GOD's perfect timing, Charlie (campus service staff) walked into the room and was able to give his input which validated what was being said. I picked up on the golden moment... and so did Charlie as we both shared that Holy Spirit smile. It feels so good inside knowing that our simple acts of love and giving a hand for a few hours, really takes a load off of someone's back. This day opened my eyes to a whole new perspective... not only were we blessing the staff at Horizon, but also the home fellwoships who come in obediance. Now they too have extra time to fellowship with one another before they go on their seperate ways. It's encouraging to see 'the fruits spring forth' as my group gives back to GOD with whatever it is they do have. We were able to meet with the home fellowship that came to assist and talk about what's been going on.
After dropping Chicago & Steven back off, back on campus I was able to get Jeremy a well needed shower. One of the men from the home fellowship we had met earlier, said he had some clothes he could contribute to Jeremy.
Jeremy hung out with us the entire day. My heart knots with sorrow and pity as I drop these men off to sleep in a bush while we both know I'm on my way to a home and bed. It kills me! Having dropped Jeremy off a hour earlier, I couldn't handle it, so I came back out and picked him up to hang out. I showed him around town and went up to Mt. Soledad where we prayed together and I felt the presence of GOD among us as we talked. I stayed out until I could tell he was too tired to stay up any longer.
After dropping Chicago & Steven back off, back on campus I was able to get Jeremy a well needed shower. One of the men from the home fellowship we had met earlier, said he had some clothes he could contribute to Jeremy.
Jeremy hung out with us the entire day. My heart knots with sorrow and pity as I drop these men off to sleep in a bush while we both know I'm on my way to a home and bed. It kills me! Having dropped Jeremy off a hour earlier, I couldn't handle it, so I came back out and picked him up to hang out. I showed him around town and went up to Mt. Soledad where we prayed together and I felt the presence of GOD among us as we talked. I stayed out until I could tell he was too tired to stay up any longer.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Week 16
There's not a single ounce of doubt in my mind that the Holy Spirit of GOD is doing mighty things in the souls of the people in Pacific Beach. I'll tell you why towards the end of this entry....
It's a giant weight lifted off my shoulders when we make the u-turn in the cul-de-sac and I notice the group of men sitting on the wall anxiously waiting to help unload and set up when I arrive. They trust us to be there, and (Lord willing) I will not be the one guy to let any of them down. I know for alot of these men & women this is the ONLY hot meal they get to eat.
Steven was helpful in cleaning up and wiping down the tables before serving. Tonight with Jeremy back on the scene, he wanted to be part of the ministry to bless others instead of being in the multitude, hanging out and getting drunk. I asked him to pass out the waters as needed. Randy was a big help tonight as well and took the task of dispersing the (delicious!) potatoe salad that my mother & cousin had prepared and dropped off.
We had about 35 guests or so, and we were wise with our portions. The food lasted almost 2hrs this time, and everyone was able to get 2nds if they wanted. There wasn't a single person turned away and it felt really good inside. Again, the majority ate and immediately took off, but there were some new comers and they stuck around until the end. I was saddened to find out that 2 of our regulars had moved on to venture in another state... so long Mohawk Mike & Ray, you will be missed. I did not have the opportunity to sit down for an actual 'bible study' but I took full advantage of sharing about the bible when the door opened during conversation.
Our photographer friend, Lisa arrived and blessed us with some more photographs she had taken weeks ago. She is such a kind and soft spoken woman that wears her heart on the outside. She has been a blessing to all of us. (Some of the shots on the slideshow are from her.)
The power of GOD's love speaks so much louder than words! The man whom I've mentioned in the past, has now gained my trust. When I first met him, he snapped at me everytime I mentioned the bible to him. He was one of the men a few weeks back that stayed for the bible study when we changed nights. In conversation tonight, I suggestively asked when he was going to join us for church since I'm always picking somebody from PB up anyways. As it is right now, it looks as though he'll be waiting on Sunday for the ride with the other men. It's taken about 14wks for that barrier to crumble and now it's obvious that GOD has opened this man's eyes to see that it's about GOD's love and not religion. Anyone can put on the religious act for a few hours.
It was clear that Chicago may have had some drinks today, and he has happy to see his buddies show up like clockwork. He's got a big heart and I know he means well. Before we parted ways, he made sure to remind me to pick him up tomorrow for chair set up... so did Steven... and so did Jeremy. I almost feel bad knocking out the chairs so fast on Saturday with my hard-working crew because by the time home fellowships show up, everything's pretty much done. Praise the good Lord though. He's blessed us with healthy physical bodies and there's no reason why we shouldn't use that to give back to Him.
In 7hrs I'll be heading back to PB and picking up the crew. I pray that the men rest comfortably with a full stomach and a refreshed soul knowing that GOD loves them just as much as the next man. In Christ, there is no differance between rich or poor. We all have struggles and being Christian doesn't make us perfect, just forgiven. Please pray for my brothers that still fight with their daily alcoholic struggles and addictions. Jeremy had the strength tonight to pass up the opportunity to drink with his old friends and I can see it's important for him to hear that people like Amanda and I are proud of him.
It's a giant weight lifted off my shoulders when we make the u-turn in the cul-de-sac and I notice the group of men sitting on the wall anxiously waiting to help unload and set up when I arrive. They trust us to be there, and (Lord willing) I will not be the one guy to let any of them down. I know for alot of these men & women this is the ONLY hot meal they get to eat.
Steven was helpful in cleaning up and wiping down the tables before serving. Tonight with Jeremy back on the scene, he wanted to be part of the ministry to bless others instead of being in the multitude, hanging out and getting drunk. I asked him to pass out the waters as needed. Randy was a big help tonight as well and took the task of dispersing the (delicious!) potatoe salad that my mother & cousin had prepared and dropped off.
We had about 35 guests or so, and we were wise with our portions. The food lasted almost 2hrs this time, and everyone was able to get 2nds if they wanted. There wasn't a single person turned away and it felt really good inside. Again, the majority ate and immediately took off, but there were some new comers and they stuck around until the end. I was saddened to find out that 2 of our regulars had moved on to venture in another state... so long Mohawk Mike & Ray, you will be missed. I did not have the opportunity to sit down for an actual 'bible study' but I took full advantage of sharing about the bible when the door opened during conversation.
Our photographer friend, Lisa arrived and blessed us with some more photographs she had taken weeks ago. She is such a kind and soft spoken woman that wears her heart on the outside. She has been a blessing to all of us. (Some of the shots on the slideshow are from her.)
The power of GOD's love speaks so much louder than words! The man whom I've mentioned in the past, has now gained my trust. When I first met him, he snapped at me everytime I mentioned the bible to him. He was one of the men a few weeks back that stayed for the bible study when we changed nights. In conversation tonight, I suggestively asked when he was going to join us for church since I'm always picking somebody from PB up anyways. As it is right now, it looks as though he'll be waiting on Sunday for the ride with the other men. It's taken about 14wks for that barrier to crumble and now it's obvious that GOD has opened this man's eyes to see that it's about GOD's love and not religion. Anyone can put on the religious act for a few hours.
It was clear that Chicago may have had some drinks today, and he has happy to see his buddies show up like clockwork. He's got a big heart and I know he means well. Before we parted ways, he made sure to remind me to pick him up tomorrow for chair set up... so did Steven... and so did Jeremy. I almost feel bad knocking out the chairs so fast on Saturday with my hard-working crew because by the time home fellowships show up, everything's pretty much done. Praise the good Lord though. He's blessed us with healthy physical bodies and there's no reason why we shouldn't use that to give back to Him.
In 7hrs I'll be heading back to PB and picking up the crew. I pray that the men rest comfortably with a full stomach and a refreshed soul knowing that GOD loves them just as much as the next man. In Christ, there is no differance between rich or poor. We all have struggles and being Christian doesn't make us perfect, just forgiven. Please pray for my brothers that still fight with their daily alcoholic struggles and addictions. Jeremy had the strength tonight to pass up the opportunity to drink with his old friends and I can see it's important for him to hear that people like Amanda and I are proud of him.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Lost... (Monday)
I received a phone call last night just before 7:30. It was Jeremy! He was unable to get into a recovery home due to lack of money... and returned to the streets, only in a new city with no friends, no hope, and liquor stores on every corner. He fell off the wagon hard this time.
The good news is that he called me for a reason. He's reaching out and I did not hesitate to make the 1.5hr drive to bring him back to San Diego. The smell of alcohol on him filled my car as we drove back, but he admitted this life is not what he wants. He sincerely wants deliverance from this heavy bondage, and after ministering to him, he realizes the ONLY way for that to happen is by surrendering his all to Jesus Christ.
Back in town, he did not want to go anywhere near his old crowd of dangerous drunks, and asked where a safe place to sleep is near my home. We went to a nearby park and I helped him scout for a 'good spot' to sleep. Before I left him alone, we prayed together and I encouraged him to trust the promises of GOD.
Now my goal is to locate a sober living home that will be able to take him in quickly. I'm asking all of you that belong to The Body to please pray continually for Jeremy and the situation he's facing right now. It has become emotionally draining for me to care so much for this man, whom I consider a brother, and not have the guidance and/or proper assistance for such a painful problem. Right now I feel as though I'm the one that's lost, not knowing what to do.
The good news is that he called me for a reason. He's reaching out and I did not hesitate to make the 1.5hr drive to bring him back to San Diego. The smell of alcohol on him filled my car as we drove back, but he admitted this life is not what he wants. He sincerely wants deliverance from this heavy bondage, and after ministering to him, he realizes the ONLY way for that to happen is by surrendering his all to Jesus Christ.
Back in town, he did not want to go anywhere near his old crowd of dangerous drunks, and asked where a safe place to sleep is near my home. We went to a nearby park and I helped him scout for a 'good spot' to sleep. Before I left him alone, we prayed together and I encouraged him to trust the promises of GOD.
Now my goal is to locate a sober living home that will be able to take him in quickly. I'm asking all of you that belong to The Body to please pray continually for Jeremy and the situation he's facing right now. It has become emotionally draining for me to care so much for this man, whom I consider a brother, and not have the guidance and/or proper assistance for such a painful problem. Right now I feel as though I'm the one that's lost, not knowing what to do.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Week 15 (Sunday)
8am sharp. Steven and Chicago were on the wall at the now infamous 'meeting spot'. Chicago was surprisingly clean shaven, which really emphasizes his deep creases when he smiles. He has a very gentle, warming smile.... with sad eyes, bearing a lifetime of pain.
We got to church early, like I always do. Reserved our places to sit in the still empty sanctuary, and walked outside to enjoy the fresh air. Amanda joined us shortly after.
The message today was powerful! Not only did GOD speak to me, but certain topics were hit and those touched Chicago in a way that could only be a GOD thing. Steve was pretty quiet throughout our time there.
After service back in PB, we stopped for lunch. While eating Chicago shared what he was feeling inside. He explained how GOD had spoken to him and he was again ready to give up his alcoholic bondage and realized some of the men he chooses to socialize with are the root of his problems. He acknowledges that: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippines 4:13) I encouraged him and Steven to both take time to pray for certain people in their lives who they see lacking a personal relationship with GOD. He is faithful to His word and sometimes we need to sit back and listen for His small still voice.
We got to church early, like I always do. Reserved our places to sit in the still empty sanctuary, and walked outside to enjoy the fresh air. Amanda joined us shortly after.
The message today was powerful! Not only did GOD speak to me, but certain topics were hit and those touched Chicago in a way that could only be a GOD thing. Steve was pretty quiet throughout our time there.
After service back in PB, we stopped for lunch. While eating Chicago shared what he was feeling inside. He explained how GOD had spoken to him and he was again ready to give up his alcoholic bondage and realized some of the men he chooses to socialize with are the root of his problems. He acknowledges that: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippines 4:13) I encouraged him and Steven to both take time to pray for certain people in their lives who they see lacking a personal relationship with GOD. He is faithful to His word and sometimes we need to sit back and listen for His small still voice.
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