Has it been a week already! Not possible, seems like I just sat down yesterday and typed this note. Hope everybody had a great Christmas time with your family and friends and ready to celebrate the New Year together.
We will start off our week by our visits Saturday, Christmas Eve. Through the generosity of Grace and Christ Methodist congregations, we had Christmas packages for our outdoor friends. We did not have enough goodies for everybody, so we asked our friends if we could meet them at their camps. So after our regular stops, we ended up at Smokey and Dale's camps. For most of us, I am sad to say, was our first visit to Smokey's camp. He showed us around, taking us to various parts of his home, just like we do when people come to our homes for the first time. He has benches to sit on. A rug of Jesus strung out over branches for his meditation room while reading his bible. A place where he feeds his birds. A place where he sits and watches the trains go by. All very nice and he was so proud to show off his home. We also got to meet one of his roommates Leroy. A very nice young man, who is picking up the talents of making crosses and dream catchers from Smokey. We then made our way over to Dale's camp where they had just built a fire in honor of me, because I like camp fires so much and we stood around the burn barrel and talked about life. As we left the camps everybody commented this is good. Dawn expressed she was warm on the outside from the fire and also warm on the inside from our camp visits. So I think, we decided walking back to the van, this is where we need to be, not in parking lots handing out stuff to folks we do not know. We have been blessed by people who want to give items to our friends who do not live inside walls, so that is where we need to be.
Not sure why this time of year, we try to cram so much into such a short amount of time, but we do. Family comes in from out of town, so we try to get everybody together which is almost impossible to do, I know it is for our family. But we still try and stress runs high. I will say as Christmas Eve began to get late in the day and we made our way back home at a late hour, a warm bed and a good night sleep sounded good. The cold temperatures set in, the rain got harder, not a night to be out but it was Christmas Eve and time for Ms Sarah and Mr Scott's service at the community chapel. I was tired, cold and sleepy but made my way to the chapel and as I walked up, David McCormick met me with his umbrella and we heard voices singing Christmas carols coming from inside the chapel. Immediately, my disposition changed and I thanked God for these crazy people. I opened the door, to candle lights, the smell of homemade cookies, hugs from friends, music being played by talented young people, words being shown on the wall with beautiful backgrounds glowing, what a spectacle. I sat there, mesmerized what these folks had created, I was blown away by what God has done through us. A year ago, this building set dark, smelled of mildew, worn out paint, and tonight we sat, celebrating the birth of our Jesus, wow, doesn't get any better than that. Words of thank you does not seem good enough, but thank you all for painting, scraping, decorating, heating, baking, singing, praying. A job well done.
I hope you all saw Krysten's note about Christmas morning. What a blessing to go around to our community delivering packages of joy. Hearing from Momma T, Goergette and Krysten, blesses me and encourages me to continue to work towards the time when we can go out into the community on a regular basis and meet our neighbors. As those of us who have been able to do at some point in time, we always have stories that blesses us with our experiences.
We continue to meet on Tuesday evenings for our community mens bible study. What a blessing it is for men who never would have come together, meet in a chapel where we can talk about how God is working in our lives. Matt has been awesome in leading our group and he continues to encourage other men from his church to join us. I continue to invite our men from the community and they come. We are learning, we are more alike than we are different and together with the help of the Holy Spirit we can make a difference in each other lives and help our community. Hopefully this is the start of something big God has in store for our community.
With school still out, we took the week off for children activities. I was there one afternoon, Tuesday I think and I look around and there are the Mitchell girls walking up asking, mr brian, are we having church today? Krysten had told them not to come, they knew that, but they have nothing else to do and knew someone would be around to lvoe on them at the center. I know at times, we want to close up the doors when the kids get crazy, but folks you all are making a difference in their little lives. They know in their small worlds where to come for snacks, activities and most importantly lvoe. Thank you for your hearts.
We had a big crowd Thursday evening. We had some new folks come and bring dessert. Yummy cakes. Ran out of food at the end. Ms Lisa was there with her lawyer. We also had our first turkey come on down game! Someone had donated over 30 turkeys to us. We had them last week but decided to wait until this week because of all the activities going on last week. I was hoping for a small crowd and we could have given everybody a turkey, but that didn't happen, so we tore up tickets and had our first turkey calling contest. Our friend Noel and Momma T called out the numbers and Georgette passed out the turkeys. Everybody seem to be ok with the process and we handed out all the turkeys. It was fun.
We set up in the friendship room for our bible study Thursday night and had to go find more chairs. An over flowing crowd, great to see so many friends join us for our discussions. Joey led us in the reading of Acts 27. This chapter is telling of Paul's adventures in a boat as they travel to Rome. In the beginning of the chapter, Paul tells them not to set sail, because of rough seas ahead. The pilot does not listen and they leave and run into the storms. Then Paul says, if you stay the course, ride out the storm, the boat will crash but it will be ok, because God will protect us all. Some believed Paul at this point others did not, but in the end all were spared, just as Paul had said. God told Paul there would be storms in his future but God would be there to protect him. There will be storms in our lives, but God will be by our sides to walk with us. Sometimes we cause our storms but other times, life is just messy and there will be trials, but we do not have to go through them alone. We have each other, and more importantly we have God. Just as Paul experienced the grace of God as He protected all the men on the ship, God will protect us.
Prayers were lifted up for Joe G (Icee Joe) as he recovers from knee surgery. Continue healing for Joe Barefield as he recovers from pneumonia. It was great to have Joe join us for supper and he also helped Ms Abbie pass out the grocery bags. Prayers for Gus as he is combating a cold and as he concludes his month long journey living under the bridge. Catfish's sister as she recovers from an illness. Hat's sister as she continues to recovery from her surgery. Wes as he continues to teach the children in China. Also, they are looking for more English teachers in China. Contact Beth if you are interested. New friends, Tony and Chico as they begin their new lives living outside, trying to find work to make their way to Montana.
Thinking back over the week, the thing that sticks out the most for me, was family. We have been blessed to have the children of our folks be a part of our community and it is so special for the young people to come around the center and help out during their Christmas breaks from school or work. What a joy it was to see Georgette, Momma T's little girl, join us for two weeks. She does not get to come home as much as we would like, so for her to be around for this long of time was a real joy. Georgette is always helping out, wonder where she gets that from? Allison, Zig Zag is a joy to have around, helping with the children, suppers and participating in our Bible studies. Lauren, joined us Thursday evening for her first visit since coming home. Her smile, her lvoe of our children is amazing to see. One afternoon as I was passing by Dr Phil's house, there were two of his children, Phillip and Merrill sitting on the front porch. I got to spend a few minutes with them catching up on their lives. It warms my heart to think God has created a place where our young people come back to when they come home, like family. To our young adults, thank you all for being who you are and continuing to support our community, you all are truly blessings to us all.
When I was in a customers house the other day, on the refrigerator was a list of New Year resolutions. The usual resolutions were listed, loose weight, eat right, go to church more, read more books. Got to thinking about that list as the day wore on, all good ideas, but I thought there was item missing, develop a better relationship with Jesus. How often do we make list about what I need to do, or what I need to accomplish or what I need to work on, but really doesn't it all start with our relationship with God? If our relationship with Jesus is not one we can go to in a moment of frustration, or anger, or joy, nothing else matters. We have talked about all year long about relationships. Our community is based on relationships with each other, but that is based on nothing if our own relationships with Jesus is not strong. Relationships with others comes and go as people move through our lives, but the one relationship that never moves away is our relationship with God. We can't loose weight, eat the right food, read the right books, attend church on our own, our spirits are weak and at some point we will fall away. But if we strive to be like Jesus, if we continue to seek His will in our lives, if like Paul, we loose ourselves and become anew in the Spirit of Christ, then all things are possible.
My new year resolution for us all, is that we seek out the Holy Spirit daily, allow Him to move us, to shape us in everything we do. We strive to strengthen our relationship with Jesus, so we can go to Him with any challenge we meet in the coming year. That Christ becomes our closet friend. As we move out and seek others, they will look at us and say, there is something different about them. May the Light of Christ shine so bright in us all in the coming months, nothing will be impossible to accomplish.
May this New Year bring joy, peace and many blessings to you all and your families. Amen.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Friday, December 23, 2011
What if we said no?
Not sure how to describe this week. So many emotions. So many people. So many things happening, it is overwhelming. But, all of it is good and God gets the glory.
With me being out of town Saturday, I can't report on our breakfast turn out. I do know I found 6 left over hash brown patties in the refrigerator, so I know most everything got eaten! Mr Scott reported, their visits went well. A few minor discussions took place, but really every weekend, we have those disagreements, but usually they get resolved on the spot and life goes on. We have begun discussions again about our roll with our outdoor friends. We will eliminate our stop by the Fairmont and decide on other stops in the near future. We don't want to stop our relationships, that won't happen, we just need to become better stewards of our funds.
Our activities the rest of the week, were leading up to our Christmas meal on Thursday. Every night we had folks coming together to do something. Monday afternoon, we had Pete, Mary, Mark and Ms Abbie practicing for the singing of our carols. What an experience to once again hear music coming from the chapel. Tuesday evening, we had our community men's Bible study, where we read about the birth of Jesus and the reason for the season. Wednesday evening, we had the Kendig clan wrapping presents for our tutoring kiddos. Momma T and Georgette decorated the chapel with Christmas cheer. Ms Sarah and Mr Scott organizing the community bags and then another Ms Sarah from Christ Methodist brought a crew to assemble Christmas bags for our outdoor friends. Every room in the center had some sort of Christmas goodies in it.
Also on Wednesday, two cars pulled up, full of Christmas presents for one of our families. Ms Lisa has been discussing with an organization about adopting a family. They agreed to support Ms Diane's family. This family is a sad story, with a mom and dad not present, and an aunt taking over the task of trying to raise all the children. Most of the children attended our summer camp this past year. This group of ladies not only gave out presents to the children, but gave Ms Diane a large Brookshire's gift card for groceries. They have agreed to support this family for the year, supplying their needs as they come up. What a blessing.
Then there was Thursday. Momma T and Georgette spent all afternoon decorating the tables with their Christmas magic. We gathered in the chapel to a packed house, standing room only! Where we sang Christmas songs, heard about what advent means, and prayed to God for all His blessings. We heard during the evening a lot of positive comments about our chapel experience and their looking forward for more. We hope to have worship at least once a month, depending on how things work out. It has been a long time coming but oh how it was worth it. Great things are in store for the chapel and those who find their way there.
We had so many folks show up, we had to get more chairs and tables as we sat down for supper. We had a nice surprise, Sione and his family joined in the festivities. As the folks were eating, Santa dropped by. Both the young and old sat on Santa's lap! We had a great meal. Following our meal, Ms Abbie handed out her groceries and then the community made their way to the friendship room, where Ms Sarah and her elves gave out bags of clothes, socks and Bibles to all. Ms Sarah, said it was so nice to hear from the community, "thank you for all ya'll are doing", "Merry Christmas", "What a blessing you all are". Mr Scott took some of outdoor friend bags to the Fairmont as he took one of friends back home. Ms Terry showed up again with her medical team, giving out free flu shots. Everything went well with no major problems. Thank you all for such a special evening. Pictures will be posted soon of the evening.
Please keep Ms Abbie's Joe in your prayers. He has been in the hospital since Monday, struggling with pneumonia. He has fluid building up in his body and they are trying to keep it drained. All of this is putting pressure on his new heart. Not sure when he will be coming home. Prayers for Ms Sarah and Mr Scott as they travel to Chicago for the week. Prayers for all who are traveling.
Don't forget, the young adults will be hosting a Christmas Eve service, Saturday night in the community chapel, starting at 11:20pm. I asked if it was ok if I showed up in my pajamas!
On Monday evening, the Men of Grace Bible study reads the Christmas story. Really it has become a tradition for us, wherever we are in the Bible, we stop and read the different passages about the birth. This year, Billy Graham had written a little article about some of his favorite passages, so we followed his suggestions. We started in Isaiah, Micah and then into the New Testament. A good way to bridge together the Old and New. Our first reading in the New Testament was Luke 1: 26-38. This is the story of where the angel comes to Mary and says you have been blessed by God and you will have a baby. What is so great about the Bible, no matter how many times you have read a passage, something might come to you for the first time.
I had one of those weird thoughts Monday night, what if Mary said, thanks but no thanks God? Here, this young girl was about to get married, minding her own business, following their traditions of their time. All of a sudden an angel appears to Mary telling her what God has planned for her and turning her world upside down. What if, Mary says, wow that is cool Gabriel, then thinks about all the grief she will get from family and friends, and says, thanks but no thanks!
I have been thinking about that this week. What if, when God said, let's build a Kingdom together, where there is such darkness and despair, what if we said, thanks but no thanks God. You are asking too much of me. When God said to us, I need you to teach my children, we said, that's nice but I don't have time. Or when God said, go visit my people who have no homes, we say, that is outside my comfort zone, let someone else do that. What if we said no?
Several months ago, the District Superintendent, spoke in our chapel as we celebrated the commissioning of our young people going into ministry. He said to the churches that were being represented there , if you closed your doors to your church tomorrow, would the community miss you? Tough question, have heard it before, but so true. Because you all did not say no, the community depends on our support, our help and our lvoe. As we witnessed last night, many, many folks of our community need us. They come to us for help, they come to us for prayer, they come to us for advise, they come to us for education, they come to us for food, they come to us for hope. The world is tough, lots of challenges to us all, we need a place where lvoe can be found no matter what our circumstances are. Because of your lvoe, we are beginning to build a place like that. A place where God can be found, a place where there are no barriers between colors, where we can come together and worship our God with no worries of what we look like, smell like or talk like.
I say it many times during the year, thank you all for living for others. But it is so true. Living for others is not normal in our society. Worrying if our friends have a meal, warm or safe is not what we are taught. We read in magazines, hear on TV, read in the newspapers, what is best for me matters most. What if Mary said no? What if we said no? Thank God, Mary did not. Thank God you all said yes.
Have a the greatest of time with your family this Christmas weekend. You all are very special followers of Christ. Amen.
With me being out of town Saturday, I can't report on our breakfast turn out. I do know I found 6 left over hash brown patties in the refrigerator, so I know most everything got eaten! Mr Scott reported, their visits went well. A few minor discussions took place, but really every weekend, we have those disagreements, but usually they get resolved on the spot and life goes on. We have begun discussions again about our roll with our outdoor friends. We will eliminate our stop by the Fairmont and decide on other stops in the near future. We don't want to stop our relationships, that won't happen, we just need to become better stewards of our funds.
Our activities the rest of the week, were leading up to our Christmas meal on Thursday. Every night we had folks coming together to do something. Monday afternoon, we had Pete, Mary, Mark and Ms Abbie practicing for the singing of our carols. What an experience to once again hear music coming from the chapel. Tuesday evening, we had our community men's Bible study, where we read about the birth of Jesus and the reason for the season. Wednesday evening, we had the Kendig clan wrapping presents for our tutoring kiddos. Momma T and Georgette decorated the chapel with Christmas cheer. Ms Sarah and Mr Scott organizing the community bags and then another Ms Sarah from Christ Methodist brought a crew to assemble Christmas bags for our outdoor friends. Every room in the center had some sort of Christmas goodies in it.
Also on Wednesday, two cars pulled up, full of Christmas presents for one of our families. Ms Lisa has been discussing with an organization about adopting a family. They agreed to support Ms Diane's family. This family is a sad story, with a mom and dad not present, and an aunt taking over the task of trying to raise all the children. Most of the children attended our summer camp this past year. This group of ladies not only gave out presents to the children, but gave Ms Diane a large Brookshire's gift card for groceries. They have agreed to support this family for the year, supplying their needs as they come up. What a blessing.
Then there was Thursday. Momma T and Georgette spent all afternoon decorating the tables with their Christmas magic. We gathered in the chapel to a packed house, standing room only! Where we sang Christmas songs, heard about what advent means, and prayed to God for all His blessings. We heard during the evening a lot of positive comments about our chapel experience and their looking forward for more. We hope to have worship at least once a month, depending on how things work out. It has been a long time coming but oh how it was worth it. Great things are in store for the chapel and those who find their way there.
We had so many folks show up, we had to get more chairs and tables as we sat down for supper. We had a nice surprise, Sione and his family joined in the festivities. As the folks were eating, Santa dropped by. Both the young and old sat on Santa's lap! We had a great meal. Following our meal, Ms Abbie handed out her groceries and then the community made their way to the friendship room, where Ms Sarah and her elves gave out bags of clothes, socks and Bibles to all. Ms Sarah, said it was so nice to hear from the community, "thank you for all ya'll are doing", "Merry Christmas", "What a blessing you all are". Mr Scott took some of outdoor friend bags to the Fairmont as he took one of friends back home. Ms Terry showed up again with her medical team, giving out free flu shots. Everything went well with no major problems. Thank you all for such a special evening. Pictures will be posted soon of the evening.
Please keep Ms Abbie's Joe in your prayers. He has been in the hospital since Monday, struggling with pneumonia. He has fluid building up in his body and they are trying to keep it drained. All of this is putting pressure on his new heart. Not sure when he will be coming home. Prayers for Ms Sarah and Mr Scott as they travel to Chicago for the week. Prayers for all who are traveling.
Don't forget, the young adults will be hosting a Christmas Eve service, Saturday night in the community chapel, starting at 11:20pm. I asked if it was ok if I showed up in my pajamas!
On Monday evening, the Men of Grace Bible study reads the Christmas story. Really it has become a tradition for us, wherever we are in the Bible, we stop and read the different passages about the birth. This year, Billy Graham had written a little article about some of his favorite passages, so we followed his suggestions. We started in Isaiah, Micah and then into the New Testament. A good way to bridge together the Old and New. Our first reading in the New Testament was Luke 1: 26-38. This is the story of where the angel comes to Mary and says you have been blessed by God and you will have a baby. What is so great about the Bible, no matter how many times you have read a passage, something might come to you for the first time.
I had one of those weird thoughts Monday night, what if Mary said, thanks but no thanks God? Here, this young girl was about to get married, minding her own business, following their traditions of their time. All of a sudden an angel appears to Mary telling her what God has planned for her and turning her world upside down. What if, Mary says, wow that is cool Gabriel, then thinks about all the grief she will get from family and friends, and says, thanks but no thanks!
I have been thinking about that this week. What if, when God said, let's build a Kingdom together, where there is such darkness and despair, what if we said, thanks but no thanks God. You are asking too much of me. When God said to us, I need you to teach my children, we said, that's nice but I don't have time. Or when God said, go visit my people who have no homes, we say, that is outside my comfort zone, let someone else do that. What if we said no?
Several months ago, the District Superintendent, spoke in our chapel as we celebrated the commissioning of our young people going into ministry. He said to the churches that were being represented there , if you closed your doors to your church tomorrow, would the community miss you? Tough question, have heard it before, but so true. Because you all did not say no, the community depends on our support, our help and our lvoe. As we witnessed last night, many, many folks of our community need us. They come to us for help, they come to us for prayer, they come to us for advise, they come to us for education, they come to us for food, they come to us for hope. The world is tough, lots of challenges to us all, we need a place where lvoe can be found no matter what our circumstances are. Because of your lvoe, we are beginning to build a place like that. A place where God can be found, a place where there are no barriers between colors, where we can come together and worship our God with no worries of what we look like, smell like or talk like.
I say it many times during the year, thank you all for living for others. But it is so true. Living for others is not normal in our society. Worrying if our friends have a meal, warm or safe is not what we are taught. We read in magazines, hear on TV, read in the newspapers, what is best for me matters most. What if Mary said no? What if we said no? Thank God, Mary did not. Thank God you all said yes.
Have a the greatest of time with your family this Christmas weekend. You all are very special followers of Christ. Amen.
Friday, December 16, 2011
God is Good!
Did you know God is Good?! Just when you have lost your faith, gotten a bad report, had your patience tested, trying to make people happy, God is there by your side, saying it's ok, I am with you.
Not sure you can get any more activities into last Saturday, but we tried. As I drove up to the center, a lady got out of her car and asked are you Brian. I said yes ma'am, what can I do for you? She said, did someone tell you we were coming today to work around the center. I said, no ma'am but that's ok. She was the teacher in charge of the Keithville Middle School Student Council. As we talked, more and more and more children showed up until we had 15 young people running all around the center. Several of them asked as they got out of their cars, about the name Anna Jackson, painted on our curb. I said, why? Most of them have a teacher named Anna Jackson. I said, yes that is the same lady. I told them she use to be the preacher's wife here and loved the community. In fact, she is on my list to invite to speak to us in one of our chapel times. What are the odds of a group of children showing up, unannounced, knowing a lady who we want to talk to our community! God is good.
We had a couple of Brookwood families come and got started on painting Krysten's office. Sure brightens up the place with a fresh coat of paint. Momma T and Ms Patty were busy preparing for U 2 Saturday, with Krysten's help. And then a gentleman pulls up with tractors and chain saws and Ms Patty got her trees cut down in preparation of our fruit grove to being planted. Mr Scott leads his band of followers to visit our friends. Wow what a morning. God is good.
One of our friends who live outside, Robert came back with Mr Scott to wash his clothes. Robert told us a couple of weeks ago, the land owner was selling the property, where his camp is, to the railroad people and he was going to have to move. We have been looking for a spot to move him, so after he got his clothes in the wash, we left to go check out some spots. I asked Robert if he would like to live inside if we could find him a place and he said that would be ok. So we stopped by an old friend Big D and talked with him. Big D has a barbeque place on Common street down the hill from First Methodist. We have had several barbeque suppers there with our friends. Big D has always helped out the guys if he could. We asked Big D if Robert could stay behind his place in an old trailer. We walked around the building and Big D offered Robert a place to stay in a storage room that was nicer than the trailer. So we spent Saturday afternoon moving Robert's stuff from one camp to his new home. God is good.
Sunday evening, we had the opportunity to come together to celebrate the life of one of our friends, Danny Hopkins. We met Danny on one of our Saturday visits, living under an overpass on Mansfield road. He had just arrived from New Orleans getting away from the hurricane. The first memory of Danny was his smile and his camp. Danny had made his camp complete with a bathroom area, a dining place and campfire section. He had mirrors to shave by, a bowl to wash your face, built out of other people's trash. The next week, we met William there. Not too long after that, Danny was forced to leave that camp and we found him at his new camp in the woods off Pines Road. Danny loved people, he would love to talk to the young people we would bring by to visit him. He always had a story about himself or somebody, always to be sure to put a smile on your face. He loved his dogs and cats.
We gathered at small church on Pines Road Sunday night, and as we walked into the sanctuary, we were surprised to see the placed packed with people. The church did not know about the Pool or Common Ground we did not know about Danny's church. What an amazing site to see, how many folks were effected by Danny's smile. The pastor spoke about Danny's character, his smile and his love of Jesus. The pastor said, his first meeting with Danny, Danny said, I am the ultimate camper! The church had prepared a feast following the celebration in their fellowship hall. We talked with the pastor about common ground and how we could work together. He said he was from Lufkin and had worked with the homeless there. Pastor David, said all of this is happening for a reason. Yes we will miss Danny but look how his life will live on through others. God is good.
Tuesday evening we had a Board meeting. Most of us do not like these things, but Ms Lisa makes it is as painless as possible. The first order of business was to vote on the purchase of property across the street on Southern from the center. A family owns 5 lots and through the negotiations with Ms Lisa they have agreed to sell us all the lots at a reduced price. Dr Phil will begin building his Tiny houses on two of the lots and the other lots will be there for us to use when God determines it is time to use them. One of the lots is the concrete parking lot we all thought the church had already owned but that was not correct. It has already been suggested we have a community work day and maybe put a dumpster there for the community. Pretty cool. God is good.
Mr Brian had to leave the meeting so maybe others can let us know what else went on. John Sauls and Momma T did give a report on the kitchen update. The plans have been approved by the state fire Marshall and now they are at the city offices for permits. We are purchasing a new vent hood, a new stove and other equipment. Can you imagine in several months what delicicious things will be coming out of that place! Wonder what God has in store for that place? What lives will be changed. Wow, God is good.
We talked about the need for funding for the operations of our center. Ms Lisa and Ms Georgeanne do a great job in finding us funding for projects, but most grants are not awarded for helping with the electricity, gas, water bills. We need to begin thinking, out side the box of having a fund raiser of some sort to help with these costs. No idea is crazy, let us hear from you some thoughts.
We had another amazing night at our community men's Bible study. Matt brought more men from Airline Baptist and they shared their hearts with us. We had a new man from our community come. It is something special when men can come together and share what is on their hearts with each other. One of the guys, shared what a blessing it has been for him to become involved with Common Ground. He went on his first visit of outdoor friends Saturday and he was blown away by what he saw and experienced. He said he has been praying to God to bring people into his life who live out the Good News, not just talk about it. He has found folks who do that at Common Ground. Thank you God, your are great!
We again gathered for our community meal, with the crowd being down a little with the weather being so nasty. We got to see the Christmas lights and decorations the young people hung around the center last Saturday. It put everybody in a better mood, don't you think?! I will say the children were wound up, with school getting out and the anticipation of Santa coming. Mr Scott has been able to get some can goods from the Food Bank the last several weeks which helps with the lowering of costs in the purchasing of can goods for our grocery bags. God supplies.
We moved into our Bible study, reading the last part of Acts 25 and 26. It was nice to have one of our young people, Zig Zag, some of us know her as Allison was back with her extended family. We read where Paul again challenges the king and the leaders about Jesus and the Good News. Paul always seeming to have the right words to dispute their accusations. Wouldn't it be nice to have Paul's boldness and authority to make such claims when we are confronted with disbelief from others? Oh wait, we can, Paul was full of the Holy Spirit, the same Holy Spirit that is in us. He just allowed the Spirit to flow freely in and through him, why can't we do the same? The same God who spoke to Paul, can speak to us, for He is good!
Next Thursday, we will hopefully start a new tradition, of going around the neighborhood, caroling. Joey wants to bring hot chocolate and he said he would bake cookies for the evening. Come and join in on the fun. New memories to be made.
Also, next Thursday, we will have our first chapel gathering. We plan to start our chapel worship time at 5 and move into our meal at 5:30. Pete, is preparing the music with help from Ms Abbie playing the keyboard, Mary playing her flute, and a new friend Mark playing the guitar. Ms Sarah and Mr Scott will lead us in through words. It has been a long time in coming, but we are finally here, worshipping God through prayer, song and words, pretty awesome. Following our chapel time, we will move into our meal, with Santa visiting with everybody during our meal. What an amazing God we have.
Prayers were lifted up for Ms Hat's sister, Nancy as she goes through hip surgery. William continues to ask for prayers as he struggles with alcohol. Gus has a new friend, Katie, going through abuse from her husband and not knowing what to do. Beth's brother John as he deals with a pinch nerve. Travel mercies for family and friends as they make their way home. Lomax and his grandmother as they go through the season for the first time without his grandfather and her husband. Dawn's son Rain, that he find his way back to his mom.
Don't forget our breakfast is this Saturday. Momma T will need help preparing our meal of biscuits and gravy. If you can come by at 8 to help please do so, if not join her and the rest of the community at 9.
A reminder, Ms Sarah and Mr Scott and the young adults will have their Christmas Eve services at the community chapel. Food and snacks will be provided at 11 in the community hall and the service will begin at 11:20, ending at midnight.
Keep Gus in your prayers as he continues to seek God outside under the bridge. He has a blog, www.thegiftoflvoe.blogspot.com. Great reading, might make you mad, will make you think, definitely will stir your heart. What a pleasure it is to know a young man who truly lives out the Good News.
Thank you all for living out the Good News. It is easy to write such stories, because you all are living not talking about changing lives. These are just a few stories of many more that go on every week. You take time to be with others, listening to their stories, helping them to turn their lives over to God and isn't that what it is all about. We led them to Christ, let God change their hearts. God is Good! All the time! Amen.
Not sure you can get any more activities into last Saturday, but we tried. As I drove up to the center, a lady got out of her car and asked are you Brian. I said yes ma'am, what can I do for you? She said, did someone tell you we were coming today to work around the center. I said, no ma'am but that's ok. She was the teacher in charge of the Keithville Middle School Student Council. As we talked, more and more and more children showed up until we had 15 young people running all around the center. Several of them asked as they got out of their cars, about the name Anna Jackson, painted on our curb. I said, why? Most of them have a teacher named Anna Jackson. I said, yes that is the same lady. I told them she use to be the preacher's wife here and loved the community. In fact, she is on my list to invite to speak to us in one of our chapel times. What are the odds of a group of children showing up, unannounced, knowing a lady who we want to talk to our community! God is good.
We had a couple of Brookwood families come and got started on painting Krysten's office. Sure brightens up the place with a fresh coat of paint. Momma T and Ms Patty were busy preparing for U 2 Saturday, with Krysten's help. And then a gentleman pulls up with tractors and chain saws and Ms Patty got her trees cut down in preparation of our fruit grove to being planted. Mr Scott leads his band of followers to visit our friends. Wow what a morning. God is good.
One of our friends who live outside, Robert came back with Mr Scott to wash his clothes. Robert told us a couple of weeks ago, the land owner was selling the property, where his camp is, to the railroad people and he was going to have to move. We have been looking for a spot to move him, so after he got his clothes in the wash, we left to go check out some spots. I asked Robert if he would like to live inside if we could find him a place and he said that would be ok. So we stopped by an old friend Big D and talked with him. Big D has a barbeque place on Common street down the hill from First Methodist. We have had several barbeque suppers there with our friends. Big D has always helped out the guys if he could. We asked Big D if Robert could stay behind his place in an old trailer. We walked around the building and Big D offered Robert a place to stay in a storage room that was nicer than the trailer. So we spent Saturday afternoon moving Robert's stuff from one camp to his new home. God is good.
Sunday evening, we had the opportunity to come together to celebrate the life of one of our friends, Danny Hopkins. We met Danny on one of our Saturday visits, living under an overpass on Mansfield road. He had just arrived from New Orleans getting away from the hurricane. The first memory of Danny was his smile and his camp. Danny had made his camp complete with a bathroom area, a dining place and campfire section. He had mirrors to shave by, a bowl to wash your face, built out of other people's trash. The next week, we met William there. Not too long after that, Danny was forced to leave that camp and we found him at his new camp in the woods off Pines Road. Danny loved people, he would love to talk to the young people we would bring by to visit him. He always had a story about himself or somebody, always to be sure to put a smile on your face. He loved his dogs and cats.
We gathered at small church on Pines Road Sunday night, and as we walked into the sanctuary, we were surprised to see the placed packed with people. The church did not know about the Pool or Common Ground we did not know about Danny's church. What an amazing site to see, how many folks were effected by Danny's smile. The pastor spoke about Danny's character, his smile and his love of Jesus. The pastor said, his first meeting with Danny, Danny said, I am the ultimate camper! The church had prepared a feast following the celebration in their fellowship hall. We talked with the pastor about common ground and how we could work together. He said he was from Lufkin and had worked with the homeless there. Pastor David, said all of this is happening for a reason. Yes we will miss Danny but look how his life will live on through others. God is good.
Tuesday evening we had a Board meeting. Most of us do not like these things, but Ms Lisa makes it is as painless as possible. The first order of business was to vote on the purchase of property across the street on Southern from the center. A family owns 5 lots and through the negotiations with Ms Lisa they have agreed to sell us all the lots at a reduced price. Dr Phil will begin building his Tiny houses on two of the lots and the other lots will be there for us to use when God determines it is time to use them. One of the lots is the concrete parking lot we all thought the church had already owned but that was not correct. It has already been suggested we have a community work day and maybe put a dumpster there for the community. Pretty cool. God is good.
Mr Brian had to leave the meeting so maybe others can let us know what else went on. John Sauls and Momma T did give a report on the kitchen update. The plans have been approved by the state fire Marshall and now they are at the city offices for permits. We are purchasing a new vent hood, a new stove and other equipment. Can you imagine in several months what delicicious things will be coming out of that place! Wonder what God has in store for that place? What lives will be changed. Wow, God is good.
We talked about the need for funding for the operations of our center. Ms Lisa and Ms Georgeanne do a great job in finding us funding for projects, but most grants are not awarded for helping with the electricity, gas, water bills. We need to begin thinking, out side the box of having a fund raiser of some sort to help with these costs. No idea is crazy, let us hear from you some thoughts.
We had another amazing night at our community men's Bible study. Matt brought more men from Airline Baptist and they shared their hearts with us. We had a new man from our community come. It is something special when men can come together and share what is on their hearts with each other. One of the guys, shared what a blessing it has been for him to become involved with Common Ground. He went on his first visit of outdoor friends Saturday and he was blown away by what he saw and experienced. He said he has been praying to God to bring people into his life who live out the Good News, not just talk about it. He has found folks who do that at Common Ground. Thank you God, your are great!
We again gathered for our community meal, with the crowd being down a little with the weather being so nasty. We got to see the Christmas lights and decorations the young people hung around the center last Saturday. It put everybody in a better mood, don't you think?! I will say the children were wound up, with school getting out and the anticipation of Santa coming. Mr Scott has been able to get some can goods from the Food Bank the last several weeks which helps with the lowering of costs in the purchasing of can goods for our grocery bags. God supplies.
We moved into our Bible study, reading the last part of Acts 25 and 26. It was nice to have one of our young people, Zig Zag, some of us know her as Allison was back with her extended family. We read where Paul again challenges the king and the leaders about Jesus and the Good News. Paul always seeming to have the right words to dispute their accusations. Wouldn't it be nice to have Paul's boldness and authority to make such claims when we are confronted with disbelief from others? Oh wait, we can, Paul was full of the Holy Spirit, the same Holy Spirit that is in us. He just allowed the Spirit to flow freely in and through him, why can't we do the same? The same God who spoke to Paul, can speak to us, for He is good!
Next Thursday, we will hopefully start a new tradition, of going around the neighborhood, caroling. Joey wants to bring hot chocolate and he said he would bake cookies for the evening. Come and join in on the fun. New memories to be made.
Also, next Thursday, we will have our first chapel gathering. We plan to start our chapel worship time at 5 and move into our meal at 5:30. Pete, is preparing the music with help from Ms Abbie playing the keyboard, Mary playing her flute, and a new friend Mark playing the guitar. Ms Sarah and Mr Scott will lead us in through words. It has been a long time in coming, but we are finally here, worshipping God through prayer, song and words, pretty awesome. Following our chapel time, we will move into our meal, with Santa visiting with everybody during our meal. What an amazing God we have.
Prayers were lifted up for Ms Hat's sister, Nancy as she goes through hip surgery. William continues to ask for prayers as he struggles with alcohol. Gus has a new friend, Katie, going through abuse from her husband and not knowing what to do. Beth's brother John as he deals with a pinch nerve. Travel mercies for family and friends as they make their way home. Lomax and his grandmother as they go through the season for the first time without his grandfather and her husband. Dawn's son Rain, that he find his way back to his mom.
Don't forget our breakfast is this Saturday. Momma T will need help preparing our meal of biscuits and gravy. If you can come by at 8 to help please do so, if not join her and the rest of the community at 9.
A reminder, Ms Sarah and Mr Scott and the young adults will have their Christmas Eve services at the community chapel. Food and snacks will be provided at 11 in the community hall and the service will begin at 11:20, ending at midnight.
Keep Gus in your prayers as he continues to seek God outside under the bridge. He has a blog, www.thegiftoflvoe.blogspot.com. Great reading, might make you mad, will make you think, definitely will stir your heart. What a pleasure it is to know a young man who truly lives out the Good News.
Thank you all for living out the Good News. It is easy to write such stories, because you all are living not talking about changing lives. These are just a few stories of many more that go on every week. You take time to be with others, listening to their stories, helping them to turn their lives over to God and isn't that what it is all about. We led them to Christ, let God change their hearts. God is Good! All the time! Amen.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Brrr, it's cold outside!
How has your week gone? How has God blessed you? Another amazing week in our community, with temperatures at or below freezing for most of it. Some more needed rain has come and even a sprinkling of snow flakes were seen. God is always there. Creating new and exciting times for us all.
We had good visits with our outdoor friends Saturday morning. We had a van full of folks joining in on the fun. We continue to be surprised by Turner's appearance at the van. What a treat to see him ride up on his bicycle as Mr Scott helps him decide on what he needs. Robert shared with us, he is having to move. The owner of the land is clearing off the property and selling the land to the railroad people. So we think we can move Robert over to behind the Macaroni factory on the other side of First Methodist. Have not heard from Robert this week to see where he is at on his move. We made our way over to the Fairmont and as we try to leave the van decides it does not want to go any further. An old friend comes up, Pastor Kendall walks over and says, should we lay hands on the van and pray? We did, and the van was good to go! As Mr Scott and others were visiting with the guys, I sneaked over and visited Cassie's new building. Cassie was hosting a photography session for the Providence House families. The building is huge with lots of potential. Hopefully it will open shortly. We made our way over to a new stop for me, behind First Methodist church. Some of our regular friends, have decided it is best for us to meet them there to keep the crowds down. Not to sound judging, but looking at this huge building behind us, with a brand new parking lot, a broken down van of crazy radical people sits ministering to the least of them seems to be out of place or maybe it is where we should be?
As I walk into tutoring Monday afternoon, Mr Krysten has the children sitting down at the table, discussing behavior qualities we need to expect from them. And also what they can depend on from us. They discuss ideas they would like to see and Krysten has put them down on a bulletin board. Look for it as you come into the center. Very positive responses and something we could all use in our lives.
Tuesday evening we had our first men's community Bible study. As I have already alluded, we have had a cold week. Well Tuesday evening, we had rain, we had snow, we had below freezing temperatures. As one of the Airline Baptist guys walk in, I say to him, if I had gone home, I would not have left the house again. Saying to him, let's wait a few more minutes, let's try to have another study next week when the weather is not so bad. Almost as I was saying that, the chapel door opens our first gentleman shows up from the neighborhood, all wet from walking in the bad weather! Then another one shows up, then another one, until we had 4 men from the neighborhood! I was blown away by their desire to brave the rainy, fridged temperatures, to come together and talk about Jesus! So here we are, sitting in this magnificent cathedral, in a circle, drinking hot chocolate, talking about Jesus, what a night! We didn't sugar coat our discussions, as we talk about discrimination, color, education divisions among us. And one of the neighborhood men spoke up and said, the only way to break the line of discrimination of color, to get past the difference in our backgrounds, is to lvoe one another as Jesus has lvoed us. Wow, we don't need another hand out, not another program, we just need each other coming together sitting around a circle and beginning to lvoe each other as Brothers in Christ. What a blessing the evening was.
Wednesday afternoon, Mr Scott went to check on Turner to be sure he was doing alright in the cold. He brought him some thermals. Turner had his tarps all spread out over his cardboard boxes blocking the wind as best as possible. Turner had a fire going and Mr Scott said he was doing ok. Mr Scott went by to check on Robert, but he was not there. Scott then drove around the area to see if those who are in tents and not under a bridge needed anything. Thank you Mr Scott for thinking of our friends.
Thursday evening, we had lots of activity. Mr Pete and an old friend Mark Williams met in the chapel to discuss our upcoming Christmas worship time. We will have first gathering in the chapel before our meal on the 22nd. Please try and come if you can, we will start at 5. Ms Abbie will be playing the keyboard, Mark will bring some folks from his church, Ms Dorothy will lead us in the singing of some Christmas hymns. I have twisted the arms of Ms Sarah and Mr Scott to say a few words. We have talked about our desire to have the opportunity to come together and share in God's lvoe in words and songs, well folks it is happening! Very exciting.
It was good to have another old friend join us Thursday evening. Terry Strain and her folks from the Pool joined us to offer flu shots to the community. Momma T and I were one of the last ones to get ours and they said they given out shots to over 20 people. They want to come back again and will do so on the 22nd. Momma T and I walked Terry around the center to show her what God has done. Terry started the Pool at the center and had not been back since she left. Lots of memories for Terry, some sad and some good. God has a way of calming the storms, relieving the stress, and turning good into bad and hopefully for Terry this will be a beginning for her to make a new start in our community. Thank you God for being so faithful.
We had a huge crowd Thursday evening for the meal. Lots of new faces. Ran out of food just at the right time. Ran out of bags of groceries after Ms Abbie had given out 60 bags. Great to have new friends but also a reminder of what we are up against as we are just scratching the service of what God has in store for us.
After our meal, we moved into our Bible study. After a couple of hours sitting in a cold room, I suggested we pray and leave. Don't think our new A/C units are heating. We have never needed heat before, so it will take us getting use to our new units to get it right. Joey led us in the reading of Acts 24. Paul again is causing trouble with just about everyone he speaks to. The Jews are made at him, the Romans are mad at him. We commented, wouldn't it be nice to be able to have that much faith in what God has told you, that we speak the words no matter what the outcome maybe. I am reminded of some of Sione's passionate talks to the people of the church asking them are you feeding the hungry, are you clothing the naked, are you visiting the lonely. Making the church feel uncomfortable, and the church saying you can't make us feel bad at church because that is not why we come to church. Sometimes when we speak the truth, especially God's truth, it may some feel uncomfortable. But isn't that what God is asking of us? If we don't speak who will? If we don't go out and visit our friends who will? If we are not the hands and feet of God who are? We can't wait for the church, we can't wait for the committees, we can't wait for society to decide, there is not time. While we talk about doing church the way Jesus has told us to do church, people are freezing, people are hungry, people need clothes, people need lvoe.
Prayers for continued struggles of alcohol for William. Prayers for continued healing for Charley. Prayers for U 2 Saturday, that our neighbors will join in on the fun. Prayers for Dominick and her new born son. Prayers for Henry and J'taylor and their family as they have moved back home. Prayers for Ms Abbie as she has to be the rock in her family and led her grands in the path they need to take. Prayers for Kelsey and upcoming marriage on July 7th.
Brookwood will be with us this Saturday as well as U 2 Saturday going on. Brookwood will be here around 8:30, U 2 starts at 10. come by and say hi and join in on the fun.
Hope you all have a great weekend, stay warm, enjoy God's blessing around you, hug your children, tell your family you lvoe them and have a blessed week ahead. Amen.
We had good visits with our outdoor friends Saturday morning. We had a van full of folks joining in on the fun. We continue to be surprised by Turner's appearance at the van. What a treat to see him ride up on his bicycle as Mr Scott helps him decide on what he needs. Robert shared with us, he is having to move. The owner of the land is clearing off the property and selling the land to the railroad people. So we think we can move Robert over to behind the Macaroni factory on the other side of First Methodist. Have not heard from Robert this week to see where he is at on his move. We made our way over to the Fairmont and as we try to leave the van decides it does not want to go any further. An old friend comes up, Pastor Kendall walks over and says, should we lay hands on the van and pray? We did, and the van was good to go! As Mr Scott and others were visiting with the guys, I sneaked over and visited Cassie's new building. Cassie was hosting a photography session for the Providence House families. The building is huge with lots of potential. Hopefully it will open shortly. We made our way over to a new stop for me, behind First Methodist church. Some of our regular friends, have decided it is best for us to meet them there to keep the crowds down. Not to sound judging, but looking at this huge building behind us, with a brand new parking lot, a broken down van of crazy radical people sits ministering to the least of them seems to be out of place or maybe it is where we should be?
As I walk into tutoring Monday afternoon, Mr Krysten has the children sitting down at the table, discussing behavior qualities we need to expect from them. And also what they can depend on from us. They discuss ideas they would like to see and Krysten has put them down on a bulletin board. Look for it as you come into the center. Very positive responses and something we could all use in our lives.
Tuesday evening we had our first men's community Bible study. As I have already alluded, we have had a cold week. Well Tuesday evening, we had rain, we had snow, we had below freezing temperatures. As one of the Airline Baptist guys walk in, I say to him, if I had gone home, I would not have left the house again. Saying to him, let's wait a few more minutes, let's try to have another study next week when the weather is not so bad. Almost as I was saying that, the chapel door opens our first gentleman shows up from the neighborhood, all wet from walking in the bad weather! Then another one shows up, then another one, until we had 4 men from the neighborhood! I was blown away by their desire to brave the rainy, fridged temperatures, to come together and talk about Jesus! So here we are, sitting in this magnificent cathedral, in a circle, drinking hot chocolate, talking about Jesus, what a night! We didn't sugar coat our discussions, as we talk about discrimination, color, education divisions among us. And one of the neighborhood men spoke up and said, the only way to break the line of discrimination of color, to get past the difference in our backgrounds, is to lvoe one another as Jesus has lvoed us. Wow, we don't need another hand out, not another program, we just need each other coming together sitting around a circle and beginning to lvoe each other as Brothers in Christ. What a blessing the evening was.
Wednesday afternoon, Mr Scott went to check on Turner to be sure he was doing alright in the cold. He brought him some thermals. Turner had his tarps all spread out over his cardboard boxes blocking the wind as best as possible. Turner had a fire going and Mr Scott said he was doing ok. Mr Scott went by to check on Robert, but he was not there. Scott then drove around the area to see if those who are in tents and not under a bridge needed anything. Thank you Mr Scott for thinking of our friends.
Thursday evening, we had lots of activity. Mr Pete and an old friend Mark Williams met in the chapel to discuss our upcoming Christmas worship time. We will have first gathering in the chapel before our meal on the 22nd. Please try and come if you can, we will start at 5. Ms Abbie will be playing the keyboard, Mark will bring some folks from his church, Ms Dorothy will lead us in the singing of some Christmas hymns. I have twisted the arms of Ms Sarah and Mr Scott to say a few words. We have talked about our desire to have the opportunity to come together and share in God's lvoe in words and songs, well folks it is happening! Very exciting.
It was good to have another old friend join us Thursday evening. Terry Strain and her folks from the Pool joined us to offer flu shots to the community. Momma T and I were one of the last ones to get ours and they said they given out shots to over 20 people. They want to come back again and will do so on the 22nd. Momma T and I walked Terry around the center to show her what God has done. Terry started the Pool at the center and had not been back since she left. Lots of memories for Terry, some sad and some good. God has a way of calming the storms, relieving the stress, and turning good into bad and hopefully for Terry this will be a beginning for her to make a new start in our community. Thank you God for being so faithful.
We had a huge crowd Thursday evening for the meal. Lots of new faces. Ran out of food just at the right time. Ran out of bags of groceries after Ms Abbie had given out 60 bags. Great to have new friends but also a reminder of what we are up against as we are just scratching the service of what God has in store for us.
After our meal, we moved into our Bible study. After a couple of hours sitting in a cold room, I suggested we pray and leave. Don't think our new A/C units are heating. We have never needed heat before, so it will take us getting use to our new units to get it right. Joey led us in the reading of Acts 24. Paul again is causing trouble with just about everyone he speaks to. The Jews are made at him, the Romans are mad at him. We commented, wouldn't it be nice to be able to have that much faith in what God has told you, that we speak the words no matter what the outcome maybe. I am reminded of some of Sione's passionate talks to the people of the church asking them are you feeding the hungry, are you clothing the naked, are you visiting the lonely. Making the church feel uncomfortable, and the church saying you can't make us feel bad at church because that is not why we come to church. Sometimes when we speak the truth, especially God's truth, it may some feel uncomfortable. But isn't that what God is asking of us? If we don't speak who will? If we don't go out and visit our friends who will? If we are not the hands and feet of God who are? We can't wait for the church, we can't wait for the committees, we can't wait for society to decide, there is not time. While we talk about doing church the way Jesus has told us to do church, people are freezing, people are hungry, people need clothes, people need lvoe.
Prayers for continued struggles of alcohol for William. Prayers for continued healing for Charley. Prayers for U 2 Saturday, that our neighbors will join in on the fun. Prayers for Dominick and her new born son. Prayers for Henry and J'taylor and their family as they have moved back home. Prayers for Ms Abbie as she has to be the rock in her family and led her grands in the path they need to take. Prayers for Kelsey and upcoming marriage on July 7th.
Brookwood will be with us this Saturday as well as U 2 Saturday going on. Brookwood will be here around 8:30, U 2 starts at 10. come by and say hi and join in on the fun.
Hope you all have a great weekend, stay warm, enjoy God's blessing around you, hug your children, tell your family you lvoe them and have a blessed week ahead. Amen.
Friday, December 2, 2011
A new Friday
We have gone through another month and we celebrate the first Friday in December. Wow, we are just about to complete another year.
We have been praying for rain and we finally got some good soaking all day rain, unfortunately it was on Saturday. We made our rounds to find just a few who braved the storms to meet us. We were walking along the tracks to Turner's camp and a downpour came. Mr Scott, Ms Dawn and I, said our good byes to Turner from afar and ran back under the covering of the bridges. Sorry Turner. We had brought Turner a tarp a couple of weeks ago, so hopefully he was making use of it Saturday. As we pulled up to the Labor Ready stop, one of the regulars told a new guy, just wait, they will be here. The new guy didn't think we would be there with the rain happening. He doesn't know this crazy group of people - does he!
When we arrived back at the center, Ms Hat and Joey were busy preparing a Thanksgiving meal for some of the guys. As Joey and Hat shared, it was a great afternoon of fun, food and the best part, fellowship. We all have busy lives. It is always special when you can sit down together, enjoy a meal and get to know one another. That is where real community is begun and lasting relationships are formed. Thanks to all for being a part of this special time.
We had a good week of tutoring. Just the right amount of children for the number of tutors that come. When you are able to sit down with a child, listen to them, have a conversation with them, you begin to learn their stories. You begin to understand what trials they are facing, hear about their dreams and get to know them a little bit better. When we get to know them and they get to know us, an authentic community is being formed.
I had been carrying around some stuff in my truck and thought we needed a community bulletin board. I mentioned that to Krysten and as of Tuesday, we now have a community bulletin board in the community room. We put Gus's newspaper article up there, Ms Ruby's obituary and our upcoming men's Bible study. This might be a great tool for the community in sharing what is going on in the community.
I arrived early Thursday afternoon at the center and found Ms Patty in the garden. For those of you who have not heard, Ms Patty presented a proposal to the guild of Master Gardeners and she was awarded $1500. Our gardens are now a part of the city wide community gardens. Whenever there is an event hosted by the Master Gardeners we will be a part of that. I just lvoe walking around the grounds and listening to the excitement in Ms Patty's voice talking about her dreams for the gardens. The monies she received will go towards the clearing of some trees along the back of the gardens, so new fruit trees can be planted. In the near future, we will have the very first Cedar Grove orchard! How amazing is that! Ms Patty had a young man volunteer his services in order to complete his Eagle Scout project and now the flower beds are complete with their very own irrigation system. Ms Patty says, can't wait until next spring, we will be able to feed the whole neighborhood! Ms Patty has great plans for the gardens and God is working in her to allow all of it to come true. Walk through the gardens the next time you are at the center, hopefully Ms Patty will be there and listen to God at work.
We had a nice group join us for our community meal. Being the first of the month, the numbers were small, but for me, I like that. You are able to sit down and relax and spend time with the folks and listen to their stories. They have such great stories, it is always a blessing to be a part of that.
We had our Bible study following the meal. Joey led us in the reading of Acts 23. We commented about the boldness of Paul. Paul was so full of the Holy Spirit, he would antagonize the leaders by telling them what was on his heart. Not wavering from his purpose of sharing the Good News. Can't we have the same boldness? What would it take for us to have the heart of Paul? What would it look like?
Prayer concerns expressed were for Mr Scott L and recovering from a cold from the Haiti trip. William, for the continued struggle with the addiction of alcohol. Hat's husband's procedure Friday morning. The Silent Auction of the Grace youth this weekend.
We had a chance to visit with John Sauls and Dr Phil about their Haiti experiences. You could see their faces light up as they began to share the stories. Hopefully we will all get a chance to listen to their adventures in the near future.
Upcoming events this week. We will have our first community men's Bible study Tuesday evening in the chapel. We are hoping it will be more than a study, but a chance to build relationships with each other. We also will have a Board meeting on Tuesday. U 2 Saturday will be on the 10th. Also we will have Brookwood join us on Saturday.
What a blessing to be a part of this community and have the opportunity to see God at work in so many of you. Amazing things happen every day, little things that change your attitude or focus into what it should be. We all have hectic lives, especially this time of year, but wouldn't it be cool to stop by, sit down with a child, maybe read a book, walk through the garden, give a hug, listen to a story, hand out a meal, give a bag of groceries away, read the Bible, pray together, visit a friend under a bridge. Guaranteed to change your life and receive a blessing beyond what you can imagine.
Hope you all have a great weekend. God is good. Amen.
We have been praying for rain and we finally got some good soaking all day rain, unfortunately it was on Saturday. We made our rounds to find just a few who braved the storms to meet us. We were walking along the tracks to Turner's camp and a downpour came. Mr Scott, Ms Dawn and I, said our good byes to Turner from afar and ran back under the covering of the bridges. Sorry Turner. We had brought Turner a tarp a couple of weeks ago, so hopefully he was making use of it Saturday. As we pulled up to the Labor Ready stop, one of the regulars told a new guy, just wait, they will be here. The new guy didn't think we would be there with the rain happening. He doesn't know this crazy group of people - does he!
When we arrived back at the center, Ms Hat and Joey were busy preparing a Thanksgiving meal for some of the guys. As Joey and Hat shared, it was a great afternoon of fun, food and the best part, fellowship. We all have busy lives. It is always special when you can sit down together, enjoy a meal and get to know one another. That is where real community is begun and lasting relationships are formed. Thanks to all for being a part of this special time.
We had a good week of tutoring. Just the right amount of children for the number of tutors that come. When you are able to sit down with a child, listen to them, have a conversation with them, you begin to learn their stories. You begin to understand what trials they are facing, hear about their dreams and get to know them a little bit better. When we get to know them and they get to know us, an authentic community is being formed.
I had been carrying around some stuff in my truck and thought we needed a community bulletin board. I mentioned that to Krysten and as of Tuesday, we now have a community bulletin board in the community room. We put Gus's newspaper article up there, Ms Ruby's obituary and our upcoming men's Bible study. This might be a great tool for the community in sharing what is going on in the community.
I arrived early Thursday afternoon at the center and found Ms Patty in the garden. For those of you who have not heard, Ms Patty presented a proposal to the guild of Master Gardeners and she was awarded $1500. Our gardens are now a part of the city wide community gardens. Whenever there is an event hosted by the Master Gardeners we will be a part of that. I just lvoe walking around the grounds and listening to the excitement in Ms Patty's voice talking about her dreams for the gardens. The monies she received will go towards the clearing of some trees along the back of the gardens, so new fruit trees can be planted. In the near future, we will have the very first Cedar Grove orchard! How amazing is that! Ms Patty had a young man volunteer his services in order to complete his Eagle Scout project and now the flower beds are complete with their very own irrigation system. Ms Patty says, can't wait until next spring, we will be able to feed the whole neighborhood! Ms Patty has great plans for the gardens and God is working in her to allow all of it to come true. Walk through the gardens the next time you are at the center, hopefully Ms Patty will be there and listen to God at work.
We had a nice group join us for our community meal. Being the first of the month, the numbers were small, but for me, I like that. You are able to sit down and relax and spend time with the folks and listen to their stories. They have such great stories, it is always a blessing to be a part of that.
We had our Bible study following the meal. Joey led us in the reading of Acts 23. We commented about the boldness of Paul. Paul was so full of the Holy Spirit, he would antagonize the leaders by telling them what was on his heart. Not wavering from his purpose of sharing the Good News. Can't we have the same boldness? What would it take for us to have the heart of Paul? What would it look like?
Prayer concerns expressed were for Mr Scott L and recovering from a cold from the Haiti trip. William, for the continued struggle with the addiction of alcohol. Hat's husband's procedure Friday morning. The Silent Auction of the Grace youth this weekend.
We had a chance to visit with John Sauls and Dr Phil about their Haiti experiences. You could see their faces light up as they began to share the stories. Hopefully we will all get a chance to listen to their adventures in the near future.
Upcoming events this week. We will have our first community men's Bible study Tuesday evening in the chapel. We are hoping it will be more than a study, but a chance to build relationships with each other. We also will have a Board meeting on Tuesday. U 2 Saturday will be on the 10th. Also we will have Brookwood join us on Saturday.
What a blessing to be a part of this community and have the opportunity to see God at work in so many of you. Amazing things happen every day, little things that change your attitude or focus into what it should be. We all have hectic lives, especially this time of year, but wouldn't it be cool to stop by, sit down with a child, maybe read a book, walk through the garden, give a hug, listen to a story, hand out a meal, give a bag of groceries away, read the Bible, pray together, visit a friend under a bridge. Guaranteed to change your life and receive a blessing beyond what you can imagine.
Hope you all have a great weekend. God is good. Amen.
Friday, November 25, 2011
The day after
Is everybody as confused on what day it is as I am or is that just part of growing old? I was getting ready this morning to join Mr Scott and our visits and realized it is only Friday, oops. Of course those of you who have been up before dawn and shopping, you all know what day it is. Hope everybody had a great Thanksgiving with your family and friends.
We had another great week around the center. Saturday morning, we gathered for our monthly breakfast feast. Momma T, Sinotra, James all helped preparing our pancakes, bacon and delicious coffee. We had a big crowd of folks join us, some from the neighborhood, some from across the street and some from Longview. Yes, Gus joined us. He brought with him a full page article from the Longview newspaper about his time spent with us last summer and his adventures under the bridge. It was a great article about Gus and his dreams for the Longview area.
Following our breakfast, we joined Mr Scott and made our visits to our outdoor friends. Our first stop is to see Robert and Turner. Sometimes we have to go into Robert's camp to wake him up, other times Robert is waiting for us with his coffee cup in hand. Some of us gather some supplies and walk down the tracks, across of very scary bridge for some of us and then into the woods to see Turner. We have known Turner for several years now, at first he would never come out to meet us. A few months passed and he would walk to the van when we parked by Robert's camp, but he has never come all the way to the van, now that we can not park by the camp. This morning, we walked back to his camp and he told Momma T and Mr Scott, I will come out to the van. So a few minutes later as we get back to the van, here comes Turner riding his bicycle out to meet us! Amazing.
I had taken my truck and followed Mr Scott in the van. We got separated at one of our stops, so I went to Labor Ready and waited for the van. Here I sat, talking to the guys and waiting and waiting and waiting. Wondering to myself, this is hard. Is this what the guys do all day everyday. They wait for a call to maybe go on a job. They wait in line for food. They wait in line to wash their clothes. They wait in line to take a shower. They wait in line at the van to get underwear. They wait. I don't go through a drive through at a restaurant because I have to wait a minute or two. I get frustrated when the morning paper doesn't come and I have to wait. What does that say about us?
While I was there, talking to Dale and others, one of my tennis shoes soles was coming off. One of the guys said you need some new shoes. I said, yea I do, but can't afford a new pair. Another guy sitting next to us, David, said here take my shoes, I have another pair in my camp. He took them off and gave them to me. I said thank you but I can't take your shoes. He said, yes you can I want you to have them. What a moment of humbling of my spirit. Being offered a pair of shoes from someone who lives under a bridge. Wow.
While we were at Labor Ready, we were visiting with our regular friends and we had two different cars pull up. People got out of the cars and went to the back of the van to ask for items. I don't see Momma T ever get upset, but she came over and said that's not right. Dale and I were sitting on the back of my truck and Dale had just said, that is not right. We talked about new ways to help our outdoor friends.
This week, there was no school, so we did not have our homework activities in the center. But as we all know, if the children know we are there, they will come. Krysten was there and they came. Monday afternoon, I thought it was special, two of our high school helpers, took time out of their vacation to come and be with our children. Each day, the front of the center was full of jump rope, hop scotch, checkers and colorful chalk drawings. Thanks to all for coming by and helping out.
Thursday evening, we opened up the doors for our regularly meal. Ms Lisa and Krysten had bought chips, cookies, drinks, ham, bread and they made sandwiches for our meal. We put them in paper bags, but some wanted to stay around and eat, so we put the meal on plates and had a great time. We were able to hook up a TV and even had one of the football games on for us to watch. We had more of the community there than I thought. Some wanted to get out of the house for awhile, some needed the groceries we had packed up, some were really hungry. They said the buses were not running, so this was the only meal they had had all day. Thanks to all who came by and helped out. This is a tradition we need to keep going.
Prayers will be needed for our Haiti family as they travel back to us on Sunday. Prayers their flights are on time so they can arrive back in Shreveport on time.
Hope you all have a great weekend when it gets here! God is good! Amen.
We had another great week around the center. Saturday morning, we gathered for our monthly breakfast feast. Momma T, Sinotra, James all helped preparing our pancakes, bacon and delicious coffee. We had a big crowd of folks join us, some from the neighborhood, some from across the street and some from Longview. Yes, Gus joined us. He brought with him a full page article from the Longview newspaper about his time spent with us last summer and his adventures under the bridge. It was a great article about Gus and his dreams for the Longview area.
Following our breakfast, we joined Mr Scott and made our visits to our outdoor friends. Our first stop is to see Robert and Turner. Sometimes we have to go into Robert's camp to wake him up, other times Robert is waiting for us with his coffee cup in hand. Some of us gather some supplies and walk down the tracks, across of very scary bridge for some of us and then into the woods to see Turner. We have known Turner for several years now, at first he would never come out to meet us. A few months passed and he would walk to the van when we parked by Robert's camp, but he has never come all the way to the van, now that we can not park by the camp. This morning, we walked back to his camp and he told Momma T and Mr Scott, I will come out to the van. So a few minutes later as we get back to the van, here comes Turner riding his bicycle out to meet us! Amazing.
I had taken my truck and followed Mr Scott in the van. We got separated at one of our stops, so I went to Labor Ready and waited for the van. Here I sat, talking to the guys and waiting and waiting and waiting. Wondering to myself, this is hard. Is this what the guys do all day everyday. They wait for a call to maybe go on a job. They wait in line for food. They wait in line to wash their clothes. They wait in line to take a shower. They wait in line at the van to get underwear. They wait. I don't go through a drive through at a restaurant because I have to wait a minute or two. I get frustrated when the morning paper doesn't come and I have to wait. What does that say about us?
While I was there, talking to Dale and others, one of my tennis shoes soles was coming off. One of the guys said you need some new shoes. I said, yea I do, but can't afford a new pair. Another guy sitting next to us, David, said here take my shoes, I have another pair in my camp. He took them off and gave them to me. I said thank you but I can't take your shoes. He said, yes you can I want you to have them. What a moment of humbling of my spirit. Being offered a pair of shoes from someone who lives under a bridge. Wow.
While we were at Labor Ready, we were visiting with our regular friends and we had two different cars pull up. People got out of the cars and went to the back of the van to ask for items. I don't see Momma T ever get upset, but she came over and said that's not right. Dale and I were sitting on the back of my truck and Dale had just said, that is not right. We talked about new ways to help our outdoor friends.
This week, there was no school, so we did not have our homework activities in the center. But as we all know, if the children know we are there, they will come. Krysten was there and they came. Monday afternoon, I thought it was special, two of our high school helpers, took time out of their vacation to come and be with our children. Each day, the front of the center was full of jump rope, hop scotch, checkers and colorful chalk drawings. Thanks to all for coming by and helping out.
Thursday evening, we opened up the doors for our regularly meal. Ms Lisa and Krysten had bought chips, cookies, drinks, ham, bread and they made sandwiches for our meal. We put them in paper bags, but some wanted to stay around and eat, so we put the meal on plates and had a great time. We were able to hook up a TV and even had one of the football games on for us to watch. We had more of the community there than I thought. Some wanted to get out of the house for awhile, some needed the groceries we had packed up, some were really hungry. They said the buses were not running, so this was the only meal they had had all day. Thanks to all who came by and helped out. This is a tradition we need to keep going.
Prayers will be needed for our Haiti family as they travel back to us on Sunday. Prayers their flights are on time so they can arrive back in Shreveport on time.
Hope you all have a great weekend when it gets here! God is good! Amen.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Weren't we just here?
Man, it seems like I was just sitting here writing this note. It can't be a week ago all of this was happening! Wow, where does the time go?
I guess the weeks go by so fast because we stay so busy around the center. Saturday was a perfect example. We had one group visiting our friends who live outdoors, we had another group helping around the center and we had a group in our garden learning about the first Thanksgiving. Great Saturday. Full of adventures, full of activities and full of life. Mr Scott said they met a record group of folks. No major problems with our guys, just living life as best they can. Brookwood Baptist again came and helped get things done around the center and the Bright House. Amazing group of people spending time with us. Then Momma T and Ms Patti held their U 2 event learning and making all sorts of stuff. Cute seeing the children running around the garden with their colorful head dresses on. Warms my heart to see such activity going on. I think God is well pleased.
Big crowd of children Monday afternoon for our homework help. After the chaos was over, there was some discussion about the direction we need to be taking with our afternoon activities. Are we at a point now of offering more assistance to those who want to learn or are we there to offer a place where the children can come and play, get a snack and feel lvoed? Krysten will lead the discussions and see what we can come up as we move into the spring semester.
With the help of some super friends, John Sauls will be taking our plans for the kitchen remodel to the city for permits so we can begin our project. John Williams has ordered the wiring and the supplies has been delivered. We are in the process of ordering a new stove to go along with the new vent hood. We plan to knock out some walls, put up some walls and make the kitchen a place where learning, dreaming and cooking will take place. Can't wait to see it all come together.
We had a great Thanksgiving meal on Thursday. Chris Ledbetter delivered some table cloths and Momma T and her crew spent the afternoon decorating the tables with magnolia leaves from the garden. Each table had candles glowing. Hat brought coloring pages and adults and children had fun coloring. Just as we were about to pray, Robert, Ms Ruby's husband walked in. As we talked about last week, Ms Ruby passed, so Pete said our prayer for the food in honor of Ms Ruby. Great moment, very touching. Robert was still trying to cope with his loss and it was great to see the community come up to him and offer their sympathies to him. Another touching moment was one of our children, Shabronica, brought over a picture she drew and addressed it to Ms Ruby and gave it to Robert. Ms Lisa and Krysten brought Thanksgiving type foods and put them in a bag, so the community received two bags Thursday night. I thought the community really appreciated that gesture, because when we told them about it, they began to applause. Hat shared her blessing of being a part of Ms Abbie's crew as the community ladies come together each week and pack the grocery bags to give away.
We had a good Bible study Thursday night as Joey led us in reading Acts 21 and 22. Paul goes to Jerusalem and continues to preach the Good News. Many listen but also many began to beat him. How often do we get into trouble when we share with the church, it is great to gather, but what are you doing for the poor? Is what you are learning on Sunday evident on Monday? Thank goodness Paul had some men around him who supported his vision. We need the same. When you are taking the journey God has placed on your heart, it does not always seem to be supported by those around you. We need to be in a community where we can express our feelings and know we will not be judged but lvoed.
Prayer concerns expressed Thursday evening. Williams asked we continue to pray for him as he struggles with his desire to drink. A terrible, terrible disease. For our outdoor friends who will need warm clothing and bedding during these cold nights. For Charley's health. For our family who will be leaving Friday at 3pm for Haiti. Ms Sarah, Mr Scott, Dr Phil and John Sauls will led the team. They will return next Sunday. Pray for those who this time of year brings feelings of depression and despair.
A reminder, this Saturday will be preparing pancakes and hot coffee for breakfast. If you want to help cook, be at the kitchen at 8, if you want to eat, be there at 9!
Several months ago, I mentioned to a group of men from Airline Baptist about having a men's Bible study for the community. I told them, I thought it would be a good way to begin to build relationships in the neighborhood. A couple of weeks ago, when Airline came back to work around the center, a man came up to me and said, he had been praying about that study and he felt he would like to lead it. So, on Tuesday evening December 6, starting at 6:30, we will begin our men's study, gathering in the chapel, and see where God led us. If you know of men who might like to join us, please let them know about it.
This Thursday, Thanksgiving day, we felt it important to be at the center to have a meal, give away groceries and just be there for the community. We asked the folks Thursday how many may come and several hands came up. Most of the community will be with their families but for those who do not have family here, we will be there. Krysten will be buying items for a sack lunch and we will give it away for those who come. We will open up at our regular time of 5. If you are able to come, please join us.
As we move into this Holiday season, may we stay focused on why we gather, why we lvoe, why we do what we do. We are told our actions speak louder than words, so if we continue to walk our walk of obedience, faith and compassion, not succumbing to the bustle of greed than others will learn, it is not about us but about our baby Jesus.
Hope you all have a great weekend and a great Thanksgiving with your family and friends. Amen.
I guess the weeks go by so fast because we stay so busy around the center. Saturday was a perfect example. We had one group visiting our friends who live outdoors, we had another group helping around the center and we had a group in our garden learning about the first Thanksgiving. Great Saturday. Full of adventures, full of activities and full of life. Mr Scott said they met a record group of folks. No major problems with our guys, just living life as best they can. Brookwood Baptist again came and helped get things done around the center and the Bright House. Amazing group of people spending time with us. Then Momma T and Ms Patti held their U 2 event learning and making all sorts of stuff. Cute seeing the children running around the garden with their colorful head dresses on. Warms my heart to see such activity going on. I think God is well pleased.
Big crowd of children Monday afternoon for our homework help. After the chaos was over, there was some discussion about the direction we need to be taking with our afternoon activities. Are we at a point now of offering more assistance to those who want to learn or are we there to offer a place where the children can come and play, get a snack and feel lvoed? Krysten will lead the discussions and see what we can come up as we move into the spring semester.
With the help of some super friends, John Sauls will be taking our plans for the kitchen remodel to the city for permits so we can begin our project. John Williams has ordered the wiring and the supplies has been delivered. We are in the process of ordering a new stove to go along with the new vent hood. We plan to knock out some walls, put up some walls and make the kitchen a place where learning, dreaming and cooking will take place. Can't wait to see it all come together.
We had a great Thanksgiving meal on Thursday. Chris Ledbetter delivered some table cloths and Momma T and her crew spent the afternoon decorating the tables with magnolia leaves from the garden. Each table had candles glowing. Hat brought coloring pages and adults and children had fun coloring. Just as we were about to pray, Robert, Ms Ruby's husband walked in. As we talked about last week, Ms Ruby passed, so Pete said our prayer for the food in honor of Ms Ruby. Great moment, very touching. Robert was still trying to cope with his loss and it was great to see the community come up to him and offer their sympathies to him. Another touching moment was one of our children, Shabronica, brought over a picture she drew and addressed it to Ms Ruby and gave it to Robert. Ms Lisa and Krysten brought Thanksgiving type foods and put them in a bag, so the community received two bags Thursday night. I thought the community really appreciated that gesture, because when we told them about it, they began to applause. Hat shared her blessing of being a part of Ms Abbie's crew as the community ladies come together each week and pack the grocery bags to give away.
We had a good Bible study Thursday night as Joey led us in reading Acts 21 and 22. Paul goes to Jerusalem and continues to preach the Good News. Many listen but also many began to beat him. How often do we get into trouble when we share with the church, it is great to gather, but what are you doing for the poor? Is what you are learning on Sunday evident on Monday? Thank goodness Paul had some men around him who supported his vision. We need the same. When you are taking the journey God has placed on your heart, it does not always seem to be supported by those around you. We need to be in a community where we can express our feelings and know we will not be judged but lvoed.
Prayer concerns expressed Thursday evening. Williams asked we continue to pray for him as he struggles with his desire to drink. A terrible, terrible disease. For our outdoor friends who will need warm clothing and bedding during these cold nights. For Charley's health. For our family who will be leaving Friday at 3pm for Haiti. Ms Sarah, Mr Scott, Dr Phil and John Sauls will led the team. They will return next Sunday. Pray for those who this time of year brings feelings of depression and despair.
A reminder, this Saturday will be preparing pancakes and hot coffee for breakfast. If you want to help cook, be at the kitchen at 8, if you want to eat, be there at 9!
Several months ago, I mentioned to a group of men from Airline Baptist about having a men's Bible study for the community. I told them, I thought it would be a good way to begin to build relationships in the neighborhood. A couple of weeks ago, when Airline came back to work around the center, a man came up to me and said, he had been praying about that study and he felt he would like to lead it. So, on Tuesday evening December 6, starting at 6:30, we will begin our men's study, gathering in the chapel, and see where God led us. If you know of men who might like to join us, please let them know about it.
This Thursday, Thanksgiving day, we felt it important to be at the center to have a meal, give away groceries and just be there for the community. We asked the folks Thursday how many may come and several hands came up. Most of the community will be with their families but for those who do not have family here, we will be there. Krysten will be buying items for a sack lunch and we will give it away for those who come. We will open up at our regular time of 5. If you are able to come, please join us.
As we move into this Holiday season, may we stay focused on why we gather, why we lvoe, why we do what we do. We are told our actions speak louder than words, so if we continue to walk our walk of obedience, faith and compassion, not succumbing to the bustle of greed than others will learn, it is not about us but about our baby Jesus.
Hope you all have a great weekend and a great Thanksgiving with your family and friends. Amen.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Only the beginning
What a special time of year. Lvoe this season of change. The cooler weather, the rain showers, the leaves changing their colors. A reminder of the awesome power of God and all He does for us.
We had an exciting weekend around the center. We had our friends from Airline Baptist church return with a large group of helpers. They did an outstanding job of working around the center. They hung fans in the chapel, cleaned the chapel, found chairs for the chapel, cleaned up the parking lot, installed door knobs, and cleaned the sidewalks. Momma T had her group preparing the chapel for a worship service Sunday night. After the group left, Krysten and I and then Ms Lisa walked into the chapel and I was blown away by the transformation that had taken place during the morning. The chapel has always been a special place to me and to see it again, where we can spend time with God, reflect on His instructions in our lives, to sing praises to Him, I sat down and did not want to leave. I am hoping, as we move forward in this journey, the chapel will become an anchor, a place where we can go and seek God's direction. Only the beginning.
We had a special visit from Gus Saturday morning, as he went around with Mr Scott and others on our visits. Mr Scott reported, no major drama in the camps. The guys are doing ok. Gus shared he is thinking about an adventure for the Christmas school break. More to come, just the beginning.
Sunday evening, we were invited to host a group from Grace and Noel Methodist as they toured each other's facilities. The new District Superintendent was in attendance and got to see our center. Ms Lisa conducted the tour of the center and then we made our way into the chapel. I had been in Dallas all day and arrived back in town just in time to walk into the chapel. Again, it was magnificent what Momma T, Ms Lisa and others had done to create a special place. Lights, candles, the unique alter, the mismatched chairs all added up to a special evening. One of the tasks of the two churches was to recognize 4 young ladies who have chosen to accept God's calling into ministry. Ali, read a verse, shared a few words and sang a song for us all. Alison was unable to attend, but her mom and dad represented her well. Can't think of a better way to open the doors of the chapel. Just the beginning.
Spencer, from Brookwood came by Saturday and walked into the chapel and the first thing he said is, we need to have a Christmas service in here. Sunday night Ms Sarah, said, the young adults would like to have their candle light Christmas eve service at the chapel. It is only the beginning.
Monday evening, we loaded up Mr Scott's truck with bags and bags and bags of groceries from Grace. A group of girl scouts donated all their can goods to us and what a blessing it was. Mr Scott called me Tuesday to be sure and take some pictures of the stocked shelves. One day we will have our shelves stocked like this each week so the community will have a good assortment of food to choose from.
We continue to have more tutors than children, which is a great thing. Tuesday afternoon, I said, surely the children won't be here with a tornado watch in effect for the city. Well again, I was wrong. As I drove up they were sitting at the chapel front doors waiting on us to arrive. Another reminder to me, one of our greatest responsibilities to our community is commitment. It would have been easy for me not to come, but I think our greatest gift we can offer, is our time. We must remember it is a beginning.
Another good gathering at our community meal. It was nice to visit with some of the folks before we started serving. Tony, a veteran has submitted the paperwork for one of the new houses to be built by St. Catherines. He has not heard anything yet on whether he will be able to get the house. Very nice young man. We offered some of our old brown tables to the community and reminded them again, next week we will have our Thanksgiving meal. Ms Abbie wanted me to share with the community the passing of one of group. Ms Abbie told me it was Ms Ruby and I assumed she meant Ms Abbey on 69th Street. But I was wrong, it was the praying Ms Ruby. Her obituary was in today's paper. Ms Ruby Robertson, was a lady who loved God and would pray before our meals, would sing a song at moments notice and was always dressed up. She always had a hat on to match her outfit. I wanted her to lead us in worship when we began our chapel times. I guess God needed her more than we did, I will miss her.
I was good to have our Thursday evening Bible study in the friendship room. We had to get more chairs because of the crowd. We had Dawn, Beth, Hat, Mary, Momma T, Krysten, James, Charley, Joey, Lomax and Dr Phi. Byron came in a bit later. Joey led us in the reading of Acts 20 starting at verse 17. Paul sharing his thoughts about Jesus to the church of Ephesus. How we are to be shepherds of our flock, to be overseers of our communities and to lead by example of how Christ helped the weak and to remember what Jesus said, it is more blessed to give than it is to receive. All of this still applies to us as we form our community and meet those who God will lead to us.
Prayer concerns for James brother, John who is going through addictions to prescription drugs. Beth, Charley and Joey's friend Phil, who is having struggles in life. Kelsey's upcoming marriage, yeaa! A friend of Dawn, Jonathan. Ms Hat's loosing a long time friend and helping the husband cope with his lost. Krysten's health insurance situation, so she can see about her breathing troubles. Joe and Ms Abbie. Joe has not been feeling good this week. Ms Abbie took him to the doctor as he was spitting up blood. Anytime Joe is not on the front porch when you drive up, you know he is not feeling well. Have not seen him all week. Young ladies who lost their mom. Lift up our veterans today. What a sacrifice those men and women have made, so we are able to lvoe God in the way that we do.
Prayers for Momma T as she leads U2 this Saturday. Lots of fun times will be had. Come by and meet some new neighbors, starting at 10 am. Also Brookwood will be coming to help and work around the center.
Wednesday evening I am guessing around 4, we will have our turkeys delivered. Ms Abbie will need help in carving them up for our meal.
There maybe a turkey leg in it for those who help!
When you have the opportunity to walk through the center with a group and show off the place, you get a sense of awe from the people. At times Mr Brian wants to sit down, put my feet up and say, wow look what I have done. We have a tendency to get complacent and relax and admire what we have done. But God, thank goodness, will have none of that. It has been a miracle to come as far as we have in a few short months, but folks this is only the beginning. We have a fellowship hall available now, where in the future we can have a Community Cafe. Meals being served by young people who will be training in the food service industry. Food prepared by our community learning to be chefs. We have a food pantry room where one day, we will have the ability to have a grocery store. Where folks will come in and pick the items they want to go into their bags. We have a chapel now, where God's message can be preach and praised all day and night. Tutoring rooms where children and maybe adults can come and learn not just in the afternoons, but during the day and at nights. We have a 2 story building just sitting there ready to occupied. God has big plans for that building and He is waiting for us to move forward. We have neighbors to meet. We have children to read to. We have houses to build. We have a sanctuary to fill, where folks will be lining up outside to get in. A garden area that will become a market for the community.
I would like to sit back in my easy chair, relax and say, man that was fun. I've done enough, let someone else do something. But God won't allow that to happen. He has blessed us because we have stayed true to His directions. He will continue to bless us if we continue to move forward and give Him the glory for it all. How exciting to be a part of something that God is leading. Won't you join us? Use your gifts to glorify God. We will all be blessed. It is only the beginning. Have a great weekend and a better week. Amen.
We had an exciting weekend around the center. We had our friends from Airline Baptist church return with a large group of helpers. They did an outstanding job of working around the center. They hung fans in the chapel, cleaned the chapel, found chairs for the chapel, cleaned up the parking lot, installed door knobs, and cleaned the sidewalks. Momma T had her group preparing the chapel for a worship service Sunday night. After the group left, Krysten and I and then Ms Lisa walked into the chapel and I was blown away by the transformation that had taken place during the morning. The chapel has always been a special place to me and to see it again, where we can spend time with God, reflect on His instructions in our lives, to sing praises to Him, I sat down and did not want to leave. I am hoping, as we move forward in this journey, the chapel will become an anchor, a place where we can go and seek God's direction. Only the beginning.
We had a special visit from Gus Saturday morning, as he went around with Mr Scott and others on our visits. Mr Scott reported, no major drama in the camps. The guys are doing ok. Gus shared he is thinking about an adventure for the Christmas school break. More to come, just the beginning.
Sunday evening, we were invited to host a group from Grace and Noel Methodist as they toured each other's facilities. The new District Superintendent was in attendance and got to see our center. Ms Lisa conducted the tour of the center and then we made our way into the chapel. I had been in Dallas all day and arrived back in town just in time to walk into the chapel. Again, it was magnificent what Momma T, Ms Lisa and others had done to create a special place. Lights, candles, the unique alter, the mismatched chairs all added up to a special evening. One of the tasks of the two churches was to recognize 4 young ladies who have chosen to accept God's calling into ministry. Ali, read a verse, shared a few words and sang a song for us all. Alison was unable to attend, but her mom and dad represented her well. Can't think of a better way to open the doors of the chapel. Just the beginning.
Spencer, from Brookwood came by Saturday and walked into the chapel and the first thing he said is, we need to have a Christmas service in here. Sunday night Ms Sarah, said, the young adults would like to have their candle light Christmas eve service at the chapel. It is only the beginning.
Monday evening, we loaded up Mr Scott's truck with bags and bags and bags of groceries from Grace. A group of girl scouts donated all their can goods to us and what a blessing it was. Mr Scott called me Tuesday to be sure and take some pictures of the stocked shelves. One day we will have our shelves stocked like this each week so the community will have a good assortment of food to choose from.
We continue to have more tutors than children, which is a great thing. Tuesday afternoon, I said, surely the children won't be here with a tornado watch in effect for the city. Well again, I was wrong. As I drove up they were sitting at the chapel front doors waiting on us to arrive. Another reminder to me, one of our greatest responsibilities to our community is commitment. It would have been easy for me not to come, but I think our greatest gift we can offer, is our time. We must remember it is a beginning.
Another good gathering at our community meal. It was nice to visit with some of the folks before we started serving. Tony, a veteran has submitted the paperwork for one of the new houses to be built by St. Catherines. He has not heard anything yet on whether he will be able to get the house. Very nice young man. We offered some of our old brown tables to the community and reminded them again, next week we will have our Thanksgiving meal. Ms Abbie wanted me to share with the community the passing of one of group. Ms Abbie told me it was Ms Ruby and I assumed she meant Ms Abbey on 69th Street. But I was wrong, it was the praying Ms Ruby. Her obituary was in today's paper. Ms Ruby Robertson, was a lady who loved God and would pray before our meals, would sing a song at moments notice and was always dressed up. She always had a hat on to match her outfit. I wanted her to lead us in worship when we began our chapel times. I guess God needed her more than we did, I will miss her.
I was good to have our Thursday evening Bible study in the friendship room. We had to get more chairs because of the crowd. We had Dawn, Beth, Hat, Mary, Momma T, Krysten, James, Charley, Joey, Lomax and Dr Phi. Byron came in a bit later. Joey led us in the reading of Acts 20 starting at verse 17. Paul sharing his thoughts about Jesus to the church of Ephesus. How we are to be shepherds of our flock, to be overseers of our communities and to lead by example of how Christ helped the weak and to remember what Jesus said, it is more blessed to give than it is to receive. All of this still applies to us as we form our community and meet those who God will lead to us.
Prayer concerns for James brother, John who is going through addictions to prescription drugs. Beth, Charley and Joey's friend Phil, who is having struggles in life. Kelsey's upcoming marriage, yeaa! A friend of Dawn, Jonathan. Ms Hat's loosing a long time friend and helping the husband cope with his lost. Krysten's health insurance situation, so she can see about her breathing troubles. Joe and Ms Abbie. Joe has not been feeling good this week. Ms Abbie took him to the doctor as he was spitting up blood. Anytime Joe is not on the front porch when you drive up, you know he is not feeling well. Have not seen him all week. Young ladies who lost their mom. Lift up our veterans today. What a sacrifice those men and women have made, so we are able to lvoe God in the way that we do.
Prayers for Momma T as she leads U2 this Saturday. Lots of fun times will be had. Come by and meet some new neighbors, starting at 10 am. Also Brookwood will be coming to help and work around the center.
Wednesday evening I am guessing around 4, we will have our turkeys delivered. Ms Abbie will need help in carving them up for our meal.
There maybe a turkey leg in it for those who help!
When you have the opportunity to walk through the center with a group and show off the place, you get a sense of awe from the people. At times Mr Brian wants to sit down, put my feet up and say, wow look what I have done. We have a tendency to get complacent and relax and admire what we have done. But God, thank goodness, will have none of that. It has been a miracle to come as far as we have in a few short months, but folks this is only the beginning. We have a fellowship hall available now, where in the future we can have a Community Cafe. Meals being served by young people who will be training in the food service industry. Food prepared by our community learning to be chefs. We have a food pantry room where one day, we will have the ability to have a grocery store. Where folks will come in and pick the items they want to go into their bags. We have a chapel now, where God's message can be preach and praised all day and night. Tutoring rooms where children and maybe adults can come and learn not just in the afternoons, but during the day and at nights. We have a 2 story building just sitting there ready to occupied. God has big plans for that building and He is waiting for us to move forward. We have neighbors to meet. We have children to read to. We have houses to build. We have a sanctuary to fill, where folks will be lining up outside to get in. A garden area that will become a market for the community.
I would like to sit back in my easy chair, relax and say, man that was fun. I've done enough, let someone else do something. But God won't allow that to happen. He has blessed us because we have stayed true to His directions. He will continue to bless us if we continue to move forward and give Him the glory for it all. How exciting to be a part of something that God is leading. Won't you join us? Use your gifts to glorify God. We will all be blessed. It is only the beginning. Have a great weekend and a better week. Amen.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Another week
You guys are going to have to fire me. Again I am late on our update this week. Will try to do better next week. Hope everybody has had a great week.
We had good visits Saturday morning. For the second week in a row, we have not had folks at our Hamilton stop. Not sure why, but hoping folks have found a better place to go. Our first stop has always been to visit one of our friends who lives by himself under a railroad bridge. He does not talk much, lives in cardboard boxes, and has the cleanest camp we visit. He is always cordial to us and the most amazing thing we find with him each week, is "he is good". We try to offer him toilet paper, I am good. We try to give him MRE's, I'm good. Can goods, snacks, anything, I'm good. He only requests a bag of ice and is very thankful for that. Mr Scott and I always walk away, thinking we could all learn from him. Someone who has nothing or very little, someone who lives in a box, under a bridge does not take what he does not need.
We again had an abundance of tutors Monday and Tuesday. In fact we had more help than we had children. But Wednesday, the exact opposite happened. We had more children than tutors so Krysten could not open up our children's section. We all played outside. We have been talking about it for awhile, I guess maybe it is time to make a list of helpers and their schedules. It will help Krysten know who is coming and who is not, so she can be better prepared as the children arrive.
We had another nice group of folks at our Thursday meal. As I mentioned it to them, I am still trying to get use to our change of days. I am not use to being home on Wednesdays. I told them, we would be there on the 24th. Giving out groceries and clothing and offering a light meal. Thought it was important to be there whether anybody shows up or not. There maybe some who do have a family to share a meal with that night, so we can be there for them. We will have our Thanksgiving meal on the 17th with turkey and dressing and all the trimmings. We usually have a big crowd so everybody that can come, we could use the help.
Ms Lisa and her family have been busy spending some of our grant money on new table and chairs. We removed all the old brown tables and now we only have the white plastic tables. We will slowly add new chairs as we go along. It looks very nice in the fellowship hall.
With so many folks gone, or involved with other activities we did not have our Bible study following the meal. Dr Phil, Momma T and I talked about some of our new schedules. For those who want to come to Bible study and can not be there for our meal, let us know and we can make to go boxes for you. We can set them aside for you and you can eat when you get there. We talked about moving our study back into the friendship room, so we will try that next week. We talked about our chapel time. Having it before or after our meal. With the time change, it will start getting darker so early, just hate for folks to walk home in the dark. Your thoughts?
This Saturday, we will have the men's group and some youth from Airline Baptist church joining us. They will be working in the chapel, cleaning up the parking lot, working on the basketball goals, putting in new locks at the Bright House, changing out the broken windows on the doors and other projects. They are suppose to be at the center by 8:30, so come by if you can and meet them.
One of the reasons we are working in the chapel Saturday, because there will be a small worship ceremony there Sunday evening. Noel and Grace are having their charge conference with the District folks. This year the two churches will be touring the New Room and our center. Following the tour of our center, they will have a dedication ceremony for four young ladies as they begin the process of becoming pastors. Three of the ladies are from Grace and two of them are part of our family. Allison and Ali along with Claire Carter will be recognized as they begin their journeys. We were told the church folks should be arriving around 6:45, but as we all know, that will not happen and it will be later than that, so if you can come by around 7 for the short service, I know the ladies would appreciate seeing all of you.
Prayer concerns: Joey and Lomax as they continue their road trip up to Minnesota. They stopped by Wednesday evening and visited with Allison. Then Thursday, they met up with Lauren. They will head further north Friday and hopefully see others of our extended family? They are due back Tuesday evening. Prayers for Hat as she supports her friend during their loss. Ms Sarah as she travels with the Junior High on their retreat. Prayers for continued sobriety.
Hope you all are able to get out and enjoy this beautiful weather. Thank you for being a part of our community. Thank you for sharing your heart with others. Have a great weekend and see you around the center next week. Amen.sco
We had good visits Saturday morning. For the second week in a row, we have not had folks at our Hamilton stop. Not sure why, but hoping folks have found a better place to go. Our first stop has always been to visit one of our friends who lives by himself under a railroad bridge. He does not talk much, lives in cardboard boxes, and has the cleanest camp we visit. He is always cordial to us and the most amazing thing we find with him each week, is "he is good". We try to offer him toilet paper, I am good. We try to give him MRE's, I'm good. Can goods, snacks, anything, I'm good. He only requests a bag of ice and is very thankful for that. Mr Scott and I always walk away, thinking we could all learn from him. Someone who has nothing or very little, someone who lives in a box, under a bridge does not take what he does not need.
We again had an abundance of tutors Monday and Tuesday. In fact we had more help than we had children. But Wednesday, the exact opposite happened. We had more children than tutors so Krysten could not open up our children's section. We all played outside. We have been talking about it for awhile, I guess maybe it is time to make a list of helpers and their schedules. It will help Krysten know who is coming and who is not, so she can be better prepared as the children arrive.
We had another nice group of folks at our Thursday meal. As I mentioned it to them, I am still trying to get use to our change of days. I am not use to being home on Wednesdays. I told them, we would be there on the 24th. Giving out groceries and clothing and offering a light meal. Thought it was important to be there whether anybody shows up or not. There maybe some who do have a family to share a meal with that night, so we can be there for them. We will have our Thanksgiving meal on the 17th with turkey and dressing and all the trimmings. We usually have a big crowd so everybody that can come, we could use the help.
Ms Lisa and her family have been busy spending some of our grant money on new table and chairs. We removed all the old brown tables and now we only have the white plastic tables. We will slowly add new chairs as we go along. It looks very nice in the fellowship hall.
With so many folks gone, or involved with other activities we did not have our Bible study following the meal. Dr Phil, Momma T and I talked about some of our new schedules. For those who want to come to Bible study and can not be there for our meal, let us know and we can make to go boxes for you. We can set them aside for you and you can eat when you get there. We talked about moving our study back into the friendship room, so we will try that next week. We talked about our chapel time. Having it before or after our meal. With the time change, it will start getting darker so early, just hate for folks to walk home in the dark. Your thoughts?
This Saturday, we will have the men's group and some youth from Airline Baptist church joining us. They will be working in the chapel, cleaning up the parking lot, working on the basketball goals, putting in new locks at the Bright House, changing out the broken windows on the doors and other projects. They are suppose to be at the center by 8:30, so come by if you can and meet them.
One of the reasons we are working in the chapel Saturday, because there will be a small worship ceremony there Sunday evening. Noel and Grace are having their charge conference with the District folks. This year the two churches will be touring the New Room and our center. Following the tour of our center, they will have a dedication ceremony for four young ladies as they begin the process of becoming pastors. Three of the ladies are from Grace and two of them are part of our family. Allison and Ali along with Claire Carter will be recognized as they begin their journeys. We were told the church folks should be arriving around 6:45, but as we all know, that will not happen and it will be later than that, so if you can come by around 7 for the short service, I know the ladies would appreciate seeing all of you.
Prayer concerns: Joey and Lomax as they continue their road trip up to Minnesota. They stopped by Wednesday evening and visited with Allison. Then Thursday, they met up with Lauren. They will head further north Friday and hopefully see others of our extended family? They are due back Tuesday evening. Prayers for Hat as she supports her friend during their loss. Ms Sarah as she travels with the Junior High on their retreat. Prayers for continued sobriety.
Hope you all are able to get out and enjoy this beautiful weather. Thank you for being a part of our community. Thank you for sharing your heart with others. Have a great weekend and see you around the center next week. Amen.sco
Saturday, October 29, 2011
fall is here
Sorry for the slow update, but still trying to get caught up. Not complaining, being with our grandson is awesome, but it does take some time to get back into our routine. We have finally gotten some much needed rain and the cooler temperatures have replaced our 100 degree days. Leaves are changing their colors in preparation for a new season. Hopefully in your home town, you are experiencing some of the same.
What a Saturday we had last week. We got started off by enjoying Momma T's world famous breakfast casserole and coffee as we welcomed the Koionia Sunday school class from Grace. Following our breakfast we took them on a tour of our center and shared our story with them. They jumped right in to repairing some wood on the building, installing new carpet in the chapel, a new light in front of the chapel, moved the ladies restroom door to another wall, painted the children's office floor, pulling some weeds around the Bright House, cleaning up some vines in the parking lot and painted the ceiling in the children's gathering area. They worked tiresly all morning long. Awesome job.
With John Sauls in charge of all the work, I was able to sneak away and make our visits with our outdoor friends. We talk about how we want to build relationships with our friends. Wanting more than just handing out goods. Well the first two stops, as we were getting out of the van, I heard from the guys, look who's here, grandpa! Let me see some pictures! Gave me big hugs! I was overwhelmed with their excitement. They who have nothing, sleeping in tents, struggling with life, acknowledging me and what God has blessed our family with in our grandson. I was humbled and over joyed by their genuine care for me.
Also going on Saturday morning, Momma T and Krysten were manning the book table at Barnes and Noble. Judy Chrisite had written another book and asked us to participate in her book signing. There were books on our table, that folks would pick up and go buy for us to put into our library. Again, overwhelmed by the generosity of people who would take their time and money and support our efforts. Judy has always been s big supporter of ours and we are grateful for her continued blessings.
I was absent from our tutoring days this week, but hear we continue to have many tutors for our children. I did spot new students from Centenary helping us out Tuesday afternoon.
Met with Mike Boggs Wednesday afternoon to discuss projects for his men's group from Airline Baptist. They will be coming Saturday, Nov 5. I had wanted to get by earlier to remind folks we had moved our meals, but did not make it. Lomax said only a handful of folks had come by for our meal. He told them to come back Thursday.
My late arrival on Thursday, I missed all the fun and activities Ms Sarah and Mr Scott had for our children at their Fall Festival. We were experiencing some rain and cooler temperatures, so they moved the games inside to various rooms. By the looks for the faces of the children, everybody had a great time. The children all had their bags full of goodies as they headed home.
I walked into the fellowship hall just as Ms Ruby was blessing our meal. I looked up and it was hard to find a seat, people were everywhere. One of the largest crowds ever. We were all surprised because of the rain and cold but they came. Lots of new faces. We will see how the Thursday meals, go but if last week is any indication, we are in for a crazy ride. Very exciting.
We did not have our chapel time due to still more work to be done. We are close and maybe looking to around Christmas time to open it up. Can't wait for that time to happen.
Following our meal, Ms Lisa had a short meeting to discuss the start of our kitchen remodel. All the monies has been sent, so now we have the tasks of spending it! John Sauls and Momma T will lead us through the process. John Williams will begin to install new wiring, some walls will be coming down and we will start to see some progress very soon. Very exciting to be thinking about one day having a kitchen were we can be training chefs to prepare gourmet meals, training waiters and waitress to serve tables and work with the public and providing a place where the community can come together and get to know each other.
After our kitchen discussions, Joey led us in our Bible study in Luke chapter 19 and part of 20. We read how people were rioting against the followers for sharing the Good News. People still get upset today, if we do not submit to their rules. Somehow if we follow the laws of Jesus, is being disruptive. Maybe it is, maybe we need to do more of it?
Prayer concerns, Hat's back problems, Dawn's life challenges, Byron trying to get a job, outdoor friends struggling with addictions and leading to bad choices and Joey and Lomax as they set out on a road trip next week.
Hope you have a great weekend and a great next week. Come by and hang out. Would lvoe to see you all. So much going on, if you don't come, you will miss all the blessings. Lvoe to all.
What a Saturday we had last week. We got started off by enjoying Momma T's world famous breakfast casserole and coffee as we welcomed the Koionia Sunday school class from Grace. Following our breakfast we took them on a tour of our center and shared our story with them. They jumped right in to repairing some wood on the building, installing new carpet in the chapel, a new light in front of the chapel, moved the ladies restroom door to another wall, painted the children's office floor, pulling some weeds around the Bright House, cleaning up some vines in the parking lot and painted the ceiling in the children's gathering area. They worked tiresly all morning long. Awesome job.
With John Sauls in charge of all the work, I was able to sneak away and make our visits with our outdoor friends. We talk about how we want to build relationships with our friends. Wanting more than just handing out goods. Well the first two stops, as we were getting out of the van, I heard from the guys, look who's here, grandpa! Let me see some pictures! Gave me big hugs! I was overwhelmed with their excitement. They who have nothing, sleeping in tents, struggling with life, acknowledging me and what God has blessed our family with in our grandson. I was humbled and over joyed by their genuine care for me.
Also going on Saturday morning, Momma T and Krysten were manning the book table at Barnes and Noble. Judy Chrisite had written another book and asked us to participate in her book signing. There were books on our table, that folks would pick up and go buy for us to put into our library. Again, overwhelmed by the generosity of people who would take their time and money and support our efforts. Judy has always been s big supporter of ours and we are grateful for her continued blessings.
I was absent from our tutoring days this week, but hear we continue to have many tutors for our children. I did spot new students from Centenary helping us out Tuesday afternoon.
Met with Mike Boggs Wednesday afternoon to discuss projects for his men's group from Airline Baptist. They will be coming Saturday, Nov 5. I had wanted to get by earlier to remind folks we had moved our meals, but did not make it. Lomax said only a handful of folks had come by for our meal. He told them to come back Thursday.
My late arrival on Thursday, I missed all the fun and activities Ms Sarah and Mr Scott had for our children at their Fall Festival. We were experiencing some rain and cooler temperatures, so they moved the games inside to various rooms. By the looks for the faces of the children, everybody had a great time. The children all had their bags full of goodies as they headed home.
I walked into the fellowship hall just as Ms Ruby was blessing our meal. I looked up and it was hard to find a seat, people were everywhere. One of the largest crowds ever. We were all surprised because of the rain and cold but they came. Lots of new faces. We will see how the Thursday meals, go but if last week is any indication, we are in for a crazy ride. Very exciting.
We did not have our chapel time due to still more work to be done. We are close and maybe looking to around Christmas time to open it up. Can't wait for that time to happen.
Following our meal, Ms Lisa had a short meeting to discuss the start of our kitchen remodel. All the monies has been sent, so now we have the tasks of spending it! John Sauls and Momma T will lead us through the process. John Williams will begin to install new wiring, some walls will be coming down and we will start to see some progress very soon. Very exciting to be thinking about one day having a kitchen were we can be training chefs to prepare gourmet meals, training waiters and waitress to serve tables and work with the public and providing a place where the community can come together and get to know each other.
After our kitchen discussions, Joey led us in our Bible study in Luke chapter 19 and part of 20. We read how people were rioting against the followers for sharing the Good News. People still get upset today, if we do not submit to their rules. Somehow if we follow the laws of Jesus, is being disruptive. Maybe it is, maybe we need to do more of it?
Prayer concerns, Hat's back problems, Dawn's life challenges, Byron trying to get a job, outdoor friends struggling with addictions and leading to bad choices and Joey and Lomax as they set out on a road trip next week.
Hope you have a great weekend and a great next week. Come by and hang out. Would lvoe to see you all. So much going on, if you don't come, you will miss all the blessings. Lvoe to all.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Chilly morning
What gorgeous weather we are having in our part of the country. Cool crisp mornings, nice comfortable afternoons - makes for great days to get outside and enjoy God's creations. Only thing missing is the rain but it will come.
This note will be short because I have been gone all week. Or it could be long and I could talk about our grandson! Nothing greater than to hold this miracle God has blessed our family with. Hopefully all of you one day will have the opportunity to experience it.
Talked to Mr Scott Monday night about his visits on Saturday night. All went well, with no major dramas, just seeing lots of folks. Did get an update on The Hub's opening of their new Basement and Cassie said it looks like winter before it will happen. Not sure what month that will be but it is getting closer.
Joey reported breakfast was good Saturday morning with some new and old friends attending the meal. Thanks to all for helping Momma T prepare the feast.
Monday afternoon we did get to meet a new student from Centenary. Laura Vaughan brought by a senior who is thinking about a career in education and the both of them jumped right in and helped out with our homework duties. The new student may want to join us this summer for our summer camp.
This Saturday, the 22nd will be full of activities. Starting at 7am, Momma T will be serving her world famous breakfast casserole to the Koinia Sunday school class from Grace. They will be doing work in the chapel, around the grounds and also inside the center, so if you have some time, come by, say hi and join in on the fun.
Then at 11am, some of us will be at Barnes and Noble for the book signing. Come by and meet and great the folks as they come in to meet Judy Christie. It is good exposure for Common Ground and a chance for us to get more books in our library.
I came into town Monday this past week to do some work. I stopped by Ms Abbie's house to show off some baby pictures. Her family were on the front porch as usual, so we sat together talking about babies and life. I told Ms Abbie, can't seem to get the new baby off my mind and that is all I think about. She said, don't worry about things around here, we will take care of it, you go take care of your grandson. How comforting that is to know how each of you pick up the slack when one of us needs help. You are a special group of people and my family is blessed to be a part of this community. Thank you all for being who you are, willing step up when someone needs help.
Hope you all have a great weekend. Enjoy each other. Enjoy your family. Enjoy life. See you at the center Saturday morning and then at Barnes and Noble. See you around the center next week.
This note will be short because I have been gone all week. Or it could be long and I could talk about our grandson! Nothing greater than to hold this miracle God has blessed our family with. Hopefully all of you one day will have the opportunity to experience it.
Talked to Mr Scott Monday night about his visits on Saturday night. All went well, with no major dramas, just seeing lots of folks. Did get an update on The Hub's opening of their new Basement and Cassie said it looks like winter before it will happen. Not sure what month that will be but it is getting closer.
Joey reported breakfast was good Saturday morning with some new and old friends attending the meal. Thanks to all for helping Momma T prepare the feast.
Monday afternoon we did get to meet a new student from Centenary. Laura Vaughan brought by a senior who is thinking about a career in education and the both of them jumped right in and helped out with our homework duties. The new student may want to join us this summer for our summer camp.
This Saturday, the 22nd will be full of activities. Starting at 7am, Momma T will be serving her world famous breakfast casserole to the Koinia Sunday school class from Grace. They will be doing work in the chapel, around the grounds and also inside the center, so if you have some time, come by, say hi and join in on the fun.
Then at 11am, some of us will be at Barnes and Noble for the book signing. Come by and meet and great the folks as they come in to meet Judy Christie. It is good exposure for Common Ground and a chance for us to get more books in our library.
I came into town Monday this past week to do some work. I stopped by Ms Abbie's house to show off some baby pictures. Her family were on the front porch as usual, so we sat together talking about babies and life. I told Ms Abbie, can't seem to get the new baby off my mind and that is all I think about. She said, don't worry about things around here, we will take care of it, you go take care of your grandson. How comforting that is to know how each of you pick up the slack when one of us needs help. You are a special group of people and my family is blessed to be a part of this community. Thank you all for being who you are, willing step up when someone needs help.
Hope you all have a great weekend. Enjoy each other. Enjoy your family. Enjoy life. See you at the center Saturday morning and then at Barnes and Noble. See you around the center next week.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Life
As I type this note this morning, my mind is also thinking about our son and his wife in Dallas as they prepare for the birth of their son. A new life, a grandson, wondering what he will achieve in his life time. What legacy can his grand father leave with him. We all too often take our life for granted, thinking we are guaranteed a tomorrow. I'll put off today what I can do tomorrow. Work a little longer today so I can have off tomorrow. What if we don't have tomorrow? Is there something today we need to get done, is there a friendship we need to mend, is there a love one who needs to hear I'm sorry, is there a phone call we need to make to let them know you love them. Life is so short, seems like yesterday, I was pushing our son's stroller down the sidewalk, now in a blink of an eye, I will be pushing my grandson's stroller down the sidewalk. Life has so much to offer, God has so much to offer are we living it the way He wants us to?
What a day we had last Saturday. So much life, so much lvoe it was great to see. We had our regular group of servants, led by Mr Scott visiting our friends who live outside. We continue to have large numbers and the demands are great. We had a special treat as Gus joined us. We had our Brookwood family join in on the fun around the center. They cleaned up the chapel, checked the lights, painted a door, reworked the flower bed, brought clothes, hung them up and sorted them out. And then you had U2 Saturday Pumpkin day going on. Momma T came over and asked us to bring over more table and chairs because of all the folks in the garden. Great to see new faces. Moms bringing their children to play pumpkin games. Bake pumpkin bread. Decorate pumpkins and learn about the history of pumpkins. Ms Lisa asked some of the new folks why they came and Gus you will be proud, because they saw the note on the sign out front. What a morning. Life is good.
Monday and Tuesday we continue to be blessed by our group of volunteers who out number our children. It is great to see them sitting with each child and truly learning together. The children love the snacks of apples, carrots and yogurt they are receiving while they do their work. Life is good when you follow your heart and serve the Lord.
Wednesday, we had a packed house and lots of new faces. Ran out of food for those who came in late. With our Grace youth coming, they help entertain the children and the noise level has really gone down. It is really nice to move about the tables and visit with different folks and hear their stories. We have not done name tags lately, so we need to get back to that. My memory is fading fast. We had a nice surprise Wednesday as one of our family came in for a visit. Alison is home for a few days and we are grateful she came to see us. Love seeing her sweet smile.
Thursday evening I was asked to attend a meeting where Ms Lisa, on our behalf, was awarded a contribution. This group of young leaders in our community, called LANO have been seeking funds for Common Ground and also spreading the word about us. I was humbled as one of the young leaders read, why out of 48 applications, Common Ground was chosen. I was blessed to hear from another young leader as he met folks in the community to ask for donations, he figured out the way to ask for money was just to say, these folks are living out the way Jesus has asked us to live, let's support them. As I left the meeting, I continue to thank God for allowing me to live a life of service. I continue to be amazed at the respect and admiration we receive for living a life that seems so natural. A reminder to us all, how unique our community is and how special it is to others for living our lives in a way that is different than the world's but normal in God's Kingdom.
Following the meeting I was able to attend our Bible study as Joey was leading our reading from Acts 17 and part of 18. We had a full table and some new and old faces. It was good to see them all. Paul talked about the Jews, who or what are you worshiping? They looked the part of being a good Jew. Had the right clothes, were in the right place, worshiping at the right time but their hearts were not of God. Just because we look religious, does not make us Christians. What idols do we have in front of us that keeps our hearts from lvoing God?Is it our work. Is it our time. Is it our egos. God is ready to lvoe us, can we let him in.
Don't forget, this Saturday is our breakfast time 9am. mr brian will be gone, so Momma T will need help in preparing french toast and all the trimmings. Please come by the center at 8 and give her a hand. Please come and enjoy the good coffee and good conversations.
Prayers for Wes and Charley as they have some health issues going on. William for a new start at sobriety. Continue to pray for Byron and Chuck as they struggle to stay with their studies for the GED. So hard to break the chain of poverty and familiarity. A new friend Justin, who is looking for a second job. Alison asked for a good second half of the fall semester. Lots of things going on, good things. We can ask that for all our college students. Continued good works in your semester and know our community is here for you. Krysten as she travels. Mary in New Orleans helping the restoration process.
I don't know if you all understand how blessed we are to be a part of this community. I know I don't, not until you hear others come up to you and say wow, what an awesome job you are doing. Maybe that is the key, it is not a job, but a way of life, it is my life. It is ya'lls lives. I get to see it every day, I get to hear from the world how impressed they are, I get to listen to the stories, I get to see lives being changed, I get see the smiles, I get to hear the thank you from the community, what a life. I hope yours is as blessed as mine. Thank you for being who you are and living your life for God.
Hope you all have a great weekend and see you around the center. Amen.
What a day we had last Saturday. So much life, so much lvoe it was great to see. We had our regular group of servants, led by Mr Scott visiting our friends who live outside. We continue to have large numbers and the demands are great. We had a special treat as Gus joined us. We had our Brookwood family join in on the fun around the center. They cleaned up the chapel, checked the lights, painted a door, reworked the flower bed, brought clothes, hung them up and sorted them out. And then you had U2 Saturday Pumpkin day going on. Momma T came over and asked us to bring over more table and chairs because of all the folks in the garden. Great to see new faces. Moms bringing their children to play pumpkin games. Bake pumpkin bread. Decorate pumpkins and learn about the history of pumpkins. Ms Lisa asked some of the new folks why they came and Gus you will be proud, because they saw the note on the sign out front. What a morning. Life is good.
Monday and Tuesday we continue to be blessed by our group of volunteers who out number our children. It is great to see them sitting with each child and truly learning together. The children love the snacks of apples, carrots and yogurt they are receiving while they do their work. Life is good when you follow your heart and serve the Lord.
Wednesday, we had a packed house and lots of new faces. Ran out of food for those who came in late. With our Grace youth coming, they help entertain the children and the noise level has really gone down. It is really nice to move about the tables and visit with different folks and hear their stories. We have not done name tags lately, so we need to get back to that. My memory is fading fast. We had a nice surprise Wednesday as one of our family came in for a visit. Alison is home for a few days and we are grateful she came to see us. Love seeing her sweet smile.
Thursday evening I was asked to attend a meeting where Ms Lisa, on our behalf, was awarded a contribution. This group of young leaders in our community, called LANO have been seeking funds for Common Ground and also spreading the word about us. I was humbled as one of the young leaders read, why out of 48 applications, Common Ground was chosen. I was blessed to hear from another young leader as he met folks in the community to ask for donations, he figured out the way to ask for money was just to say, these folks are living out the way Jesus has asked us to live, let's support them. As I left the meeting, I continue to thank God for allowing me to live a life of service. I continue to be amazed at the respect and admiration we receive for living a life that seems so natural. A reminder to us all, how unique our community is and how special it is to others for living our lives in a way that is different than the world's but normal in God's Kingdom.
Following the meeting I was able to attend our Bible study as Joey was leading our reading from Acts 17 and part of 18. We had a full table and some new and old faces. It was good to see them all. Paul talked about the Jews, who or what are you worshiping? They looked the part of being a good Jew. Had the right clothes, were in the right place, worshiping at the right time but their hearts were not of God. Just because we look religious, does not make us Christians. What idols do we have in front of us that keeps our hearts from lvoing God?Is it our work. Is it our time. Is it our egos. God is ready to lvoe us, can we let him in.
Don't forget, this Saturday is our breakfast time 9am. mr brian will be gone, so Momma T will need help in preparing french toast and all the trimmings. Please come by the center at 8 and give her a hand. Please come and enjoy the good coffee and good conversations.
Prayers for Wes and Charley as they have some health issues going on. William for a new start at sobriety. Continue to pray for Byron and Chuck as they struggle to stay with their studies for the GED. So hard to break the chain of poverty and familiarity. A new friend Justin, who is looking for a second job. Alison asked for a good second half of the fall semester. Lots of things going on, good things. We can ask that for all our college students. Continued good works in your semester and know our community is here for you. Krysten as she travels. Mary in New Orleans helping the restoration process.
I don't know if you all understand how blessed we are to be a part of this community. I know I don't, not until you hear others come up to you and say wow, what an awesome job you are doing. Maybe that is the key, it is not a job, but a way of life, it is my life. It is ya'lls lives. I get to see it every day, I get to hear from the world how impressed they are, I get to listen to the stories, I get to see lives being changed, I get see the smiles, I get to hear the thank you from the community, what a life. I hope yours is as blessed as mine. Thank you for being who you are and living your life for God.
Hope you all have a great weekend and see you around the center. Amen.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Worship
Don't know what it is, but this time of year seems so nice. Last week, following our golf game, one of the guys said, I am going home and take a shower, but really I don't have to! We weren't ringing wet from the hot weather we have had all summer long. The air has a crispness in it that makes you want to get out. The cool mornings are spectacular. Don't think I have ever seen such blue skies. Just a very nice time of year.
These cool mornings make it great for visiting our friends who live outside. You notice a change in their demeanors. More laughing, more joking around with them. We had good visits with them this past week, seeing around 40 or so. Learning new names and seeing old smiles is a blessing. Mr Scott performed eye surgery on one of our friends, by putting in eye drops. You just never know what you will run into. Always fun to be around and lend a hand.
Monday we had more children than we did tutors and Tuesday we had more tutors than we did kids. Guess which day was the quietest? Ms Sarah and her youth, the Centenary friends, all are coming and helping out. It is really a blessing to see new relationships being formed. Thursday afternoon, with the nice weather, we moved some table and chairs outside and did some homework outside. Then Mary and the others played games with them until it was time to leave. Very nice.
Wednesday, we were invited to a Volunteer Fair at LSUS. Ms Sarah and a new friend Ms Abbey started us off, Mr Brian showed up at 11 and then Ms Lisa closed us out. When I got there, Ms Sarah and Ms Abbey had three sheets filled with young people wanting to come by and help. Listening to Ms Sarah and Ms Abbey talk about Common Ground, I wanted to sign up! It was great to see the ladies in action talking about what our community is about and watching the young people expressions of awe. It was also good to walk around and make contacts with other agencies and maybe work together with them.
As I pulled up to the center Wednesday afternoon, I hear a voice from across the street, Mr Brian - Mr Brian! Before I could turn around, our Stephanie comes running over for a big hug. It was great to see after being away from us for over a year. She looks good, she feels good and full of energy with her usual big smile. She will be completing her masters degree shortly and will be soon looking for a job. I told her, we have a place for her to stay, if she could find a job here in Shreveport! Seeing our family come by for visits is like family members who maybe live far away and you don't see them for a year or so. Your conversations pick up from where you last saw them and everything seems right with the world.
This Saturday will be a busy one for us all. Mr Scott will lead our visits. Brookwood will be coming to help out around the center and Momma T and Ms Patty will be leading our first U 2 Saturday. Please come and join in the fun.
Our gathering was smaller for our meal on Wednesday. Being the first of the month, not unusual. The Grace youth passed out our latest newsletter and a flyer for our U 2 Saturday. We talked about our upcoming change of days for our meal and working towards opening up the chapel. One image I remember from the evening, was watching one of young ones, CJ passing out the drinks. He had one drink in each hand, walking to the tables and placing them by our folks with a smile and then skipping back to the drink counter for more. What an image of a little one performing a menial task but doing it with such enthusiasm and joy.
Following our meal, John Sauls and I met with John Williams and others of the Koiania Sunday school class at Grace. They are planning a work day, Saturday October 22. That is the same day of the book fair, but they will be arriving early and will pretty much be self sustaining once they get going. We gave them lots of projects to do and they will decide which ones they can accomplish. Great group of people willing to help us out. Beth and Charley are a part of the class.
When I walked into the fellowship hall Thursday evening, it smelled like I was in a Mexican restaurant. Joey was preparing chicken tahittas. they were great. Momma T brought salad and desert. We had two new faces join us. Our Stephanie was able to come and a new friend Dawn. She is a friend of Dr Phil's. Dawn came by Wednesday afternoon for our meal and she jumped right in and helped with everything. She was one of the last to leave, having cleaned up the kitchen. We read from Acts completing Chapter 16. We read about how Paul and Silas were in prison, praising God and all of sudden, God makes the earth shake and the chains were broken. We talked about how they were worshiping God, in prison, not asking to be freed, but praising God for all His glory and God blesses them by releasing their chains. A good example of how we should live our lives. I find myself asking God for this or that, what I feel like I need, when I should be living by the Spirit, seeking God's Kingdom, praising Him through my trials and tribulations, understanding God is with me and will provide a way for me.
We talked about how God talks to us. Several folks relating amazing stories of God's presence in their lives. How do we know it is God or just our own person talking? Most all agree, God speaks in a quiet voice, not usually by a burning bush, so how do we hear Him? We all need to spend more time alone with Him. Quiet time, time for listening, not talking but hearing what is being spoken. We all to often think we have to be talking to God, but how can we hear what He is saying if we are talking and not listening. I remember seeing John Wesley's house in London I think, where he would go into a closet, shut the door, with nothing in there other than him and God. Jesus, from time to time would leave his disciples and go to the mountain to be alone with his father. Can't we do the same? If we are sincere about our relationship with God, we need to be as diligent. Don't give our left over time, but our first time to God.
Prayers for William and his bad neck ache. He mentioned last week, he has been sober for over 20 days, and hoping to keep it going. One of his longest stretches so far. Praise God. Continued prayers for Wes as he continues his adventures in China. Prayers for a decision by a doctor Dr Phil interviewed last week to join his staff at Shriners. Dawn asked for prayers to find a place to live close to our community. Prayers for Ms Ruby on 69 street. Her health is failing and financial troubles. Continued prayers for Chuck and his family. It is so hard to break the chain of poverty and despair. Chuck will need God's help in making that transition.
I was sitting at a red light the other day, must have been along Youree Drive, because I had plenty of time to read the electronic billboard at the intersection. There were two advertisements for churches. Come worship with us Sundays at 11am one said. Another said, were traditions continue Sundays at 8:30 and 10. Got me to thinking, Common Ground should place an ad and say, come worship with us, Saturday mornings at 9:30. Visit the least of them. Or Worship with us Thursday evenings at 5, feeding the hungry, clothing the naked. Or Join us for worship on Monday, Tuesday Thursdays as we care for the children. Join us as we worship together in our neighborhood meeting our neighbors on Saturdays. We need to come together and worship but don't let that be the end of our praising God. God has blessed us, we need to bless others and share His lvoe everyday. Thank you all for worshiping in unique and special ways.
Hope you all get out and enjoy the weather and the many blessings God has for us. Hope to see you this weekend or next week around the center. Amen.
These cool mornings make it great for visiting our friends who live outside. You notice a change in their demeanors. More laughing, more joking around with them. We had good visits with them this past week, seeing around 40 or so. Learning new names and seeing old smiles is a blessing. Mr Scott performed eye surgery on one of our friends, by putting in eye drops. You just never know what you will run into. Always fun to be around and lend a hand.
Monday we had more children than we did tutors and Tuesday we had more tutors than we did kids. Guess which day was the quietest? Ms Sarah and her youth, the Centenary friends, all are coming and helping out. It is really a blessing to see new relationships being formed. Thursday afternoon, with the nice weather, we moved some table and chairs outside and did some homework outside. Then Mary and the others played games with them until it was time to leave. Very nice.
Wednesday, we were invited to a Volunteer Fair at LSUS. Ms Sarah and a new friend Ms Abbey started us off, Mr Brian showed up at 11 and then Ms Lisa closed us out. When I got there, Ms Sarah and Ms Abbey had three sheets filled with young people wanting to come by and help. Listening to Ms Sarah and Ms Abbey talk about Common Ground, I wanted to sign up! It was great to see the ladies in action talking about what our community is about and watching the young people expressions of awe. It was also good to walk around and make contacts with other agencies and maybe work together with them.
As I pulled up to the center Wednesday afternoon, I hear a voice from across the street, Mr Brian - Mr Brian! Before I could turn around, our Stephanie comes running over for a big hug. It was great to see after being away from us for over a year. She looks good, she feels good and full of energy with her usual big smile. She will be completing her masters degree shortly and will be soon looking for a job. I told her, we have a place for her to stay, if she could find a job here in Shreveport! Seeing our family come by for visits is like family members who maybe live far away and you don't see them for a year or so. Your conversations pick up from where you last saw them and everything seems right with the world.
This Saturday will be a busy one for us all. Mr Scott will lead our visits. Brookwood will be coming to help out around the center and Momma T and Ms Patty will be leading our first U 2 Saturday. Please come and join in the fun.
Our gathering was smaller for our meal on Wednesday. Being the first of the month, not unusual. The Grace youth passed out our latest newsletter and a flyer for our U 2 Saturday. We talked about our upcoming change of days for our meal and working towards opening up the chapel. One image I remember from the evening, was watching one of young ones, CJ passing out the drinks. He had one drink in each hand, walking to the tables and placing them by our folks with a smile and then skipping back to the drink counter for more. What an image of a little one performing a menial task but doing it with such enthusiasm and joy.
Following our meal, John Sauls and I met with John Williams and others of the Koiania Sunday school class at Grace. They are planning a work day, Saturday October 22. That is the same day of the book fair, but they will be arriving early and will pretty much be self sustaining once they get going. We gave them lots of projects to do and they will decide which ones they can accomplish. Great group of people willing to help us out. Beth and Charley are a part of the class.
When I walked into the fellowship hall Thursday evening, it smelled like I was in a Mexican restaurant. Joey was preparing chicken tahittas. they were great. Momma T brought salad and desert. We had two new faces join us. Our Stephanie was able to come and a new friend Dawn. She is a friend of Dr Phil's. Dawn came by Wednesday afternoon for our meal and she jumped right in and helped with everything. She was one of the last to leave, having cleaned up the kitchen. We read from Acts completing Chapter 16. We read about how Paul and Silas were in prison, praising God and all of sudden, God makes the earth shake and the chains were broken. We talked about how they were worshiping God, in prison, not asking to be freed, but praising God for all His glory and God blesses them by releasing their chains. A good example of how we should live our lives. I find myself asking God for this or that, what I feel like I need, when I should be living by the Spirit, seeking God's Kingdom, praising Him through my trials and tribulations, understanding God is with me and will provide a way for me.
We talked about how God talks to us. Several folks relating amazing stories of God's presence in their lives. How do we know it is God or just our own person talking? Most all agree, God speaks in a quiet voice, not usually by a burning bush, so how do we hear Him? We all need to spend more time alone with Him. Quiet time, time for listening, not talking but hearing what is being spoken. We all to often think we have to be talking to God, but how can we hear what He is saying if we are talking and not listening. I remember seeing John Wesley's house in London I think, where he would go into a closet, shut the door, with nothing in there other than him and God. Jesus, from time to time would leave his disciples and go to the mountain to be alone with his father. Can't we do the same? If we are sincere about our relationship with God, we need to be as diligent. Don't give our left over time, but our first time to God.
Prayers for William and his bad neck ache. He mentioned last week, he has been sober for over 20 days, and hoping to keep it going. One of his longest stretches so far. Praise God. Continued prayers for Wes as he continues his adventures in China. Prayers for a decision by a doctor Dr Phil interviewed last week to join his staff at Shriners. Dawn asked for prayers to find a place to live close to our community. Prayers for Ms Ruby on 69 street. Her health is failing and financial troubles. Continued prayers for Chuck and his family. It is so hard to break the chain of poverty and despair. Chuck will need God's help in making that transition.
I was sitting at a red light the other day, must have been along Youree Drive, because I had plenty of time to read the electronic billboard at the intersection. There were two advertisements for churches. Come worship with us Sundays at 11am one said. Another said, were traditions continue Sundays at 8:30 and 10. Got me to thinking, Common Ground should place an ad and say, come worship with us, Saturday mornings at 9:30. Visit the least of them. Or Worship with us Thursday evenings at 5, feeding the hungry, clothing the naked. Or Join us for worship on Monday, Tuesday Thursdays as we care for the children. Join us as we worship together in our neighborhood meeting our neighbors on Saturdays. We need to come together and worship but don't let that be the end of our praising God. God has blessed us, we need to bless others and share His lvoe everyday. Thank you all for worshiping in unique and special ways.
Hope you all get out and enjoy the weather and the many blessings God has for us. Hope to see you this weekend or next week around the center. Amen.
Friday, September 30, 2011
October coming
How was your week? What challenges did God present to you and how did you deal with them? We just never know, what our days will hold, so can we say thank you Lord for being a part of our lives.
Scott, Momma T and Dr Phil reported they did not see as many friends as usual. Not sure why, but we will see what happens this week. Hopefully other groups are opening up on the weekends to help with the needs.
We continue to be blessed by our homework activities. We have had as many helpers as we have had children, so we are able to have one on one groups working. It is really nice when we have these type of numbers, the noise level is way down and some quality work is being accomplished. There are some new pictures up on our face book page of the afternoon activities. Note one of the pictures showing, apples and milk being served during the afternoon. Wow, I think Ms Sarah is the reasoning behind this. Thursday the kids, got carrots and dip. The surprising thing most all the children enjoyed the snacks.
Our Wednesday meal was delicious and served up by our Grace youth. Our numbers were down, but that is ok because we get a chance to visit with more of our community. Everybody seems to be doing fine, just struggling with the hot weather and lack of rain. We had a treat this week from one of the area Boy Scout troops. The Boy Scouts had a can food drive and we received half of their donations. With the amount of food we got, Mr Scott did not have to go to the store and buy any food. What a blessing.
Ms Lisa and her lawyers came by on Wednesday and were still there as we were leaving. The community seems to be getting more comfortable with the lawyers and willing to talk to them about their situations. It is so gratifying to see the lawyers take it upon themselves to get personally involved to help out our community. One of the lawyers, our friend from Grace, could not get our printers to work, so he saved all the information and was going back to his office and print up all the documents needed. Pretty cool.
With our new lawn person, the grounds are really looking nice. It is great to drive up to a yard where the sidewalks are edged and the lawn is mowed.
We gathered for our meal and Bible study Thursday evening. Always good food and conversations. We did not get through much of Acts in Chapter 16 as a discussion came up about the Holy Spirit of Jesus and God. Are there two Spirits? After some discussions, we came to the conclusion does it matter? When some of the Philistines came to Jesus and Jesus said, I do not know you, go away from here. We need for God to know us and know our hearts by allowing the Holy Spirit to dwell within us. The Holy Spirit will guide us in our journeys and the paths we need to be on. We read about Paul not going a certain direction because the Holy Spirit told them not to go that way. May we all become so in tuned with the Holy Spirit, we can decern the direction God is asking us to take in our lives.
Prayers were lifted up for Mr Brian's son and daughter-in-law as they prepare to be new parents. Krysten as she travels. Prayers for the hiring of doctors to help Dr Phil. Prayers for Chuck and Byron as they struggle to make a break from their past. Wes as he continues to teach in China. Prayers for the beginning of our U 2 Saturdays. For the fruitful blessing of the Haiti garage sale on Saturday at Sarah and Scott's home. Prayers for friendships, that they may grow and develop. Prayers for Joey, as he reflects on his car accident. No body was hurt other than his pride. Lomax as he starts building new relationships with other communities.
Started thinking about October and all the events, so thought I would list them.
October 8 - U 2 Saturdays, 10 -12.
Brookwood Servant Saturday
22 - Book fair- Barnes and Noble
15 - Breakfast
19 - Clearview youth coming to serve
27 - First Thursday meal
Chapel worship
Fall Festival
I am sure there are other events, but those are the ones that come to mind. All exciting activities and hope you all can come and be a part of them.
Hope you have a great weekend. The temperatures are suppose to be cooler. Get out and enjoy it all. See you around the center.
Scott, Momma T and Dr Phil reported they did not see as many friends as usual. Not sure why, but we will see what happens this week. Hopefully other groups are opening up on the weekends to help with the needs.
We continue to be blessed by our homework activities. We have had as many helpers as we have had children, so we are able to have one on one groups working. It is really nice when we have these type of numbers, the noise level is way down and some quality work is being accomplished. There are some new pictures up on our face book page of the afternoon activities. Note one of the pictures showing, apples and milk being served during the afternoon. Wow, I think Ms Sarah is the reasoning behind this. Thursday the kids, got carrots and dip. The surprising thing most all the children enjoyed the snacks.
Our Wednesday meal was delicious and served up by our Grace youth. Our numbers were down, but that is ok because we get a chance to visit with more of our community. Everybody seems to be doing fine, just struggling with the hot weather and lack of rain. We had a treat this week from one of the area Boy Scout troops. The Boy Scouts had a can food drive and we received half of their donations. With the amount of food we got, Mr Scott did not have to go to the store and buy any food. What a blessing.
Ms Lisa and her lawyers came by on Wednesday and were still there as we were leaving. The community seems to be getting more comfortable with the lawyers and willing to talk to them about their situations. It is so gratifying to see the lawyers take it upon themselves to get personally involved to help out our community. One of the lawyers, our friend from Grace, could not get our printers to work, so he saved all the information and was going back to his office and print up all the documents needed. Pretty cool.
With our new lawn person, the grounds are really looking nice. It is great to drive up to a yard where the sidewalks are edged and the lawn is mowed.
We gathered for our meal and Bible study Thursday evening. Always good food and conversations. We did not get through much of Acts in Chapter 16 as a discussion came up about the Holy Spirit of Jesus and God. Are there two Spirits? After some discussions, we came to the conclusion does it matter? When some of the Philistines came to Jesus and Jesus said, I do not know you, go away from here. We need for God to know us and know our hearts by allowing the Holy Spirit to dwell within us. The Holy Spirit will guide us in our journeys and the paths we need to be on. We read about Paul not going a certain direction because the Holy Spirit told them not to go that way. May we all become so in tuned with the Holy Spirit, we can decern the direction God is asking us to take in our lives.
Prayers were lifted up for Mr Brian's son and daughter-in-law as they prepare to be new parents. Krysten as she travels. Prayers for the hiring of doctors to help Dr Phil. Prayers for Chuck and Byron as they struggle to make a break from their past. Wes as he continues to teach in China. Prayers for the beginning of our U 2 Saturdays. For the fruitful blessing of the Haiti garage sale on Saturday at Sarah and Scott's home. Prayers for friendships, that they may grow and develop. Prayers for Joey, as he reflects on his car accident. No body was hurt other than his pride. Lomax as he starts building new relationships with other communities.
Started thinking about October and all the events, so thought I would list them.
October 8 - U 2 Saturdays, 10 -12.
Brookwood Servant Saturday
22 - Book fair- Barnes and Noble
15 - Breakfast
19 - Clearview youth coming to serve
27 - First Thursday meal
Chapel worship
Fall Festival
I am sure there are other events, but those are the ones that come to mind. All exciting activities and hope you all can come and be a part of them.
Hope you have a great weekend. The temperatures are suppose to be cooler. Get out and enjoy it all. See you around the center.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Fall Back
Have you done your part, today is the first day of autumn, as a new season is in front of us. I don't about you, but I am ready for the change. This summer, with it's high temperatures, drought conditions, has been a challenge. The cooler mornings, lower humidity has put a little zest in our steps and maybe the rain will come to give us some relief.
As most of you know, Friday afternoons is goof off day for me. A group of us meet at the golf course and act crazy for several hours. Since my play is pretty lame at best, my main focus is giving all the others a hard time and whining the whole afternoon about my bad play. As we were fixing to hit our first shots, I glanced back at the club house and a figure walked into the club house. I said to the others, that almost looked like Sione. A few minutes later, out comes Sione from the club house and he joined us. What a treat. He looked good. He seems to be doing fine at his new church. Being the kind of guy I am, I played the worst round of my life, so Sione could beat me and have a good afternoon! Thanks Sione for coming, we had a great time, glad you beat me!
Saturday morning we had a great gathering of folks for our breakfast. Momma T and Curtis prepared a buffet of scrambled eggs, ham, biscuits, gravy, orange slices, hash browns and good hot coffee. Just as we were finishing up, Sione surprises us again by a visit. The little we had left over, our Centenary friends packed it in boxes and we took it with us on our visits. We had big crowds at each stop, where Mr Scott worked his magic handing out his goodies. Some how, we always seem to have just enough for the last person we see.
Joey asked us to mention to some of our friends about coming to the Friendship room. When we saw the guys, and we asked, they couldn't wait for us to come back and pick them up. Joey, Ms Hat, Gus and others have started something that is becoming an important part in our outdoor friends lives. One of the guys, said, I can't wait to get there are watch the movie we started last week. It is simple things, that make the greatest impact on their lives. At some point in the afternoon, the guys had a barbeque outside the center with ribs, potatoes and all the trimmings. Hate I missed that.
Tutoring went really well this week. Some days we had more helpers than we had kids. Those days, we can sit down with each child and have one on one help, which makes for a great afternoon. You can see the Centenary students beginning to develop relationships with the children. Thursday, the Centenary students brought their friends to help out. Our new Centenary students are Mara, Jeremy, Kayla and Alissa. Ms Lisa one day, had a vocabulary quiz with the children. Asking them if they could say the words and what each word meant. Some children did better than others, but all were well behind in their grade level.
Wednesday, we had a nice visit from North Point Methodist church and it's mission leader Mark Williams. Mark is a former member of Grace and was always supportive of our ministry in Cedar Grove. He and his wife would be at our meals and they were a tremendous help at the beginning of our Kitchen Angel ministry. It was great to see him and the others he brought. He said, he is hoping to come once a month and bring more from his new church. Ms Sarah brought her youth, so we had a nice group of helpers.
Joey missed tutoring Thursday because he was in the kitchen preparing the meal of beef stroganoff and rice for our meal on. It was delicious. Momma T brought dessert and we had a good evening. Our group was smaller than usual but it was nice. We read Acts Chapter 15. We talked about the Jews complaining about the Gentiles not being acceptable because they had not been circumcised. Which brought us into a discussion about, are we accepting to all who we come in contact with. Since they look different, maybe come from another background, don't dress the way we do, do we open our arms to them? Peter told the Jews, it is not about what you do, the rules you follow, the traditions you teach but about your heart. God knows your heart and He will make the judgement.
A church emailed me about coming the end of October to help. I said ok but got to thinking about our board discussions of changing our meal time. I asked several folks and all agreed the board decided to move our Wednesday meal to Thursday evenings starting October 29. If our chapel is ready, we will have worship at 5 and then supper at 5:30. We have asked Pete Bollinger to get us started with the music. We need to have someone share a few words? Ms Sarah, said she and the youth would have a Fall Festival set up also.
We talked Thursday evening about with our change in meals, what do we do with our Thursday night Bible study. One suggestion was to move it to Tuesday or Wednesday nights. Another suggestion was to have it after our new meal time and open it up to the community. Joey said, if that gets too big we can divide up the groups. Wouldn't that be a nice problem to have. Be thinking about what you would like to do and we can talk more about it in the coming weeks.
Prayer concerns for Byron and Chuck. They have gone their separate ways and each struggling to make a new way for themselves. Challenges of life forcing them down. Thank goodness for Hat and Joey who are the one constant force in both their lives.
Prayers for Sinotra. His probation officer came and met with us about his progress. He has struggled in the past but at the moment seems to be making the right choices in his life. She is hoping he has changed his path of disobedience and moved on. Sinotra came by Wednesday and gave everybody a hug.
Krysten as she decides on a new job. She has been offered a position at First Methodist church.
Lomax and his grandmother. She is making progress in her life dealing with the loss of her husband and for Lomax as he becomes her comforter in that process.
Stress. As I see each of you in your various areas of ministry, hear your challenges, witness your triumphs and watch your struggles, I also hear and see your stress. I just want us to take a breathe. Maybe even step back for a moment. And ask, are we allowing God and His Holy Spirit to lead us in our journeys? As we continue to move forward, we are always asking questions of the unknown. Where will the money come from? Who will lead this? What is not working? How are we going to do this? I need to get this done. If I don't do it who will? Questions with no answers lead to stress if we allow it. I am the world's biggest stress producer or maybe I should say, I use to be. Our faith will handle our stress if we allow it to. We do not have to know the answers, if we know we are in God's will. I told Mr Scott Saturday, don't stress over funding for our outdoor friends. Evidently right now, God is asking us to be obedient and provide for His children. Even though we want to do it another way, that way has not happened, so we must be present in this path He has laid out for us. When it is time for a change, He will provide that change.
All of you are so special to our community, to God and us as a family. We need to enjoy God's majesty. We are here for such a short period of time, we need to enjoy God's blessings in our lives. We need to have fun. We need to enjoy each other's lives. We need to sing praises about our community.
Have a great weekend and great week. See you around the community. Amen.
As most of you know, Friday afternoons is goof off day for me. A group of us meet at the golf course and act crazy for several hours. Since my play is pretty lame at best, my main focus is giving all the others a hard time and whining the whole afternoon about my bad play. As we were fixing to hit our first shots, I glanced back at the club house and a figure walked into the club house. I said to the others, that almost looked like Sione. A few minutes later, out comes Sione from the club house and he joined us. What a treat. He looked good. He seems to be doing fine at his new church. Being the kind of guy I am, I played the worst round of my life, so Sione could beat me and have a good afternoon! Thanks Sione for coming, we had a great time, glad you beat me!
Saturday morning we had a great gathering of folks for our breakfast. Momma T and Curtis prepared a buffet of scrambled eggs, ham, biscuits, gravy, orange slices, hash browns and good hot coffee. Just as we were finishing up, Sione surprises us again by a visit. The little we had left over, our Centenary friends packed it in boxes and we took it with us on our visits. We had big crowds at each stop, where Mr Scott worked his magic handing out his goodies. Some how, we always seem to have just enough for the last person we see.
Joey asked us to mention to some of our friends about coming to the Friendship room. When we saw the guys, and we asked, they couldn't wait for us to come back and pick them up. Joey, Ms Hat, Gus and others have started something that is becoming an important part in our outdoor friends lives. One of the guys, said, I can't wait to get there are watch the movie we started last week. It is simple things, that make the greatest impact on their lives. At some point in the afternoon, the guys had a barbeque outside the center with ribs, potatoes and all the trimmings. Hate I missed that.
Tutoring went really well this week. Some days we had more helpers than we had kids. Those days, we can sit down with each child and have one on one help, which makes for a great afternoon. You can see the Centenary students beginning to develop relationships with the children. Thursday, the Centenary students brought their friends to help out. Our new Centenary students are Mara, Jeremy, Kayla and Alissa. Ms Lisa one day, had a vocabulary quiz with the children. Asking them if they could say the words and what each word meant. Some children did better than others, but all were well behind in their grade level.
Wednesday, we had a nice visit from North Point Methodist church and it's mission leader Mark Williams. Mark is a former member of Grace and was always supportive of our ministry in Cedar Grove. He and his wife would be at our meals and they were a tremendous help at the beginning of our Kitchen Angel ministry. It was great to see him and the others he brought. He said, he is hoping to come once a month and bring more from his new church. Ms Sarah brought her youth, so we had a nice group of helpers.
Joey missed tutoring Thursday because he was in the kitchen preparing the meal of beef stroganoff and rice for our meal on. It was delicious. Momma T brought dessert and we had a good evening. Our group was smaller than usual but it was nice. We read Acts Chapter 15. We talked about the Jews complaining about the Gentiles not being acceptable because they had not been circumcised. Which brought us into a discussion about, are we accepting to all who we come in contact with. Since they look different, maybe come from another background, don't dress the way we do, do we open our arms to them? Peter told the Jews, it is not about what you do, the rules you follow, the traditions you teach but about your heart. God knows your heart and He will make the judgement.
A church emailed me about coming the end of October to help. I said ok but got to thinking about our board discussions of changing our meal time. I asked several folks and all agreed the board decided to move our Wednesday meal to Thursday evenings starting October 29. If our chapel is ready, we will have worship at 5 and then supper at 5:30. We have asked Pete Bollinger to get us started with the music. We need to have someone share a few words? Ms Sarah, said she and the youth would have a Fall Festival set up also.
We talked Thursday evening about with our change in meals, what do we do with our Thursday night Bible study. One suggestion was to move it to Tuesday or Wednesday nights. Another suggestion was to have it after our new meal time and open it up to the community. Joey said, if that gets too big we can divide up the groups. Wouldn't that be a nice problem to have. Be thinking about what you would like to do and we can talk more about it in the coming weeks.
Prayer concerns for Byron and Chuck. They have gone their separate ways and each struggling to make a new way for themselves. Challenges of life forcing them down. Thank goodness for Hat and Joey who are the one constant force in both their lives.
Prayers for Sinotra. His probation officer came and met with us about his progress. He has struggled in the past but at the moment seems to be making the right choices in his life. She is hoping he has changed his path of disobedience and moved on. Sinotra came by Wednesday and gave everybody a hug.
Krysten as she decides on a new job. She has been offered a position at First Methodist church.
Lomax and his grandmother. She is making progress in her life dealing with the loss of her husband and for Lomax as he becomes her comforter in that process.
Stress. As I see each of you in your various areas of ministry, hear your challenges, witness your triumphs and watch your struggles, I also hear and see your stress. I just want us to take a breathe. Maybe even step back for a moment. And ask, are we allowing God and His Holy Spirit to lead us in our journeys? As we continue to move forward, we are always asking questions of the unknown. Where will the money come from? Who will lead this? What is not working? How are we going to do this? I need to get this done. If I don't do it who will? Questions with no answers lead to stress if we allow it. I am the world's biggest stress producer or maybe I should say, I use to be. Our faith will handle our stress if we allow it to. We do not have to know the answers, if we know we are in God's will. I told Mr Scott Saturday, don't stress over funding for our outdoor friends. Evidently right now, God is asking us to be obedient and provide for His children. Even though we want to do it another way, that way has not happened, so we must be present in this path He has laid out for us. When it is time for a change, He will provide that change.
All of you are so special to our community, to God and us as a family. We need to enjoy God's majesty. We are here for such a short period of time, we need to enjoy God's blessings in our lives. We need to have fun. We need to enjoy each other's lives. We need to sing praises about our community.
Have a great weekend and great week. See you around the community. Amen.
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