This past weekend (Saturday, June 18th) we (Rich, Nancy, Joshua and myself) trekked out to the corner of 15th and Market to meet with the homeless. We had a smaller turn out, but it was an encouraging time, as we had an opportunity to hear people's stories and we were able to connect with people. People are always surprised that we are there... Most think we are having a sidewalk sale and then to hear that all the clothes, the hygeine products and the coffee are free to those in need blows people out of the water.

There is always one or two who particularly stick out in your mind. They remind you why you are doing this and just how much God loves each and every person, as you are face-to-face with a man or woman created in God's image. Then you feel burdened to do more, to pray more and to find out how God can use our little hands and feet to be extensions of His great justice and mercy.

One man has been on my heart for the past week. He was admitted to the hospital for 11 days because of an infection he had on his leg which kept him from being able to walk. His face was worn, his hands were torn. You could tell that the ten years living on the street weighed heavy on him. And although he had everything going against him he was so thankful to have us there. He was so thankful that he could expect that every month there would be someone there to give him clean clothes and to listen to him. On his way out he said, "Thank you for being here and I will be praying that God brings you more donations".

Sometimes it is hard to know what we are doing out there. Does our blankets and coats really make a difference? God reminds us that he is the one at work and that even in the smallest ways he is continually renewing and redeeming souls for His Kingdom.

Praise be to God!