The following is a letter sent out to my Prayerpartners of the last 2 years. It's a quick update about the journey that God has brought me on in NYC. I pray that God speaks to you in some way through these words. Thank you for your interest, prayers, love and support over this time of serving Him.
Celebrating Joy.........Join me in this Journey
It’s been over 2 years since God called me to prepare to come and serve Him fulltime in NYC. And in May, it will be 2 years since I arrived with my overstuffed suitcases and moved into my little apartment. I can still feel that excitement and apprehension all rolled into one. His call is my Joy.
God has blessed me in so many ways on this journey. He has also stretched, challenged, molded, humbled, grown, and drawn me closer to Him through everything He has allowed in my life. What Joy!
The transition from the411nyc to Parable Church has been interesting and rewarding. This strong body of believers and seekers want to know and trust God more deeply, and serve others in His name. Our church is very streamlined and basic, choosing to use our resources on ministry more than on office rent, etc. These changes have allowed me more time to personally serve and meet with more people to which God has provided opportunity to minister. I am very blessed to know, work beside, worship and minister with the people of Parable Church. Parable brings me Joy.
There have been some wonderful volunteer teams come to serve in NYC on short-term missions these last 2 years. Some of them will be lifetime friends and prayer warriors. I’ve been blessed, encouraged and challenged through those experiences. I pray that they have been also. They give me Joy.
As I start out serving in NYC in 2009, I find myself reflecting on how God has used my unworthy life to represent Him. He can use anything or anyone He chooses, even me, when I give Him control of my life. He’s equipped me with compassion, mercy and grace, and all I need to do is to love on people here in whatever way He directs – He provides the opportunities and I just share His love and compassion and truth. The Lord is my strength and my Joy.
There is more to serving here than just me being physically present. This ministry takes hundreds of obedient people praying, encouraging, coming to serve, and giving financially. This assignment has never been about just me. It’s about God’s people coming together for a particular goal that He has determined. This is Joy shared.
After much prayer over the last 4 months, I feel God calling me to stay and serve in NYC for another season. So many things are coming together for His truth to be revealed in the lives of people here. I’ve struggled with this decision only when I focused on finances. God has brought me back to the beginning of my journey of faithful provision. He has impressed upon me to focus on the ‘needs of others’ and He will take care of providing the ‘necessities for me’. His direction and provision bring Joy.
There are many expenses incurred in serving as a Missionary in NYC and God has been faithful through some very lean times. I know He will provide through His people the material needs for this coming year. It is my privilege to invite His people to join in this ministry. There is Joy in working together and being obedient to Him.
I ask you to prayerfully consider how God wants you to join in this ministry… through prayer, giving, coming to NYC, whatever HE directs. Be obedient, be blessed, and find Joy in serving Him.
Following Him Always,
Vickie
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
February 17, 2009
It's Tuesday morning and I've been busy cleaning my place, listening to praise music and working on the computer. It seems God talks to me in funny ways sometimes. I know He reaches each of us in the ways that are unique to us. We all listen and learn differently. I'm a visual person and learn best when I can 'see' a concept or can compare it to something I'm already familiar with. God speaks to me often in the seemingly most insignificant circumstances. I'm thankful that He does. I need simple! And He has used my simple mind and life to touch lives here. People often mention that they appreciate my simple faith, the simple way I pray, the way I direct most conversations back to the simple truth of knowing Jesus. (especially here where everyone is trying to be so intellectual and influential). God can use simple...
This morning as I was vacuuming my room, I was thinking about how it's a little difficult and comparing that to my life. You see, I live in a room in the corner of the basement of my building. It's next to the boiler room and across the hall from the elevator maintenance room. I've grown accustomed to the unique noises that these motors and machines make. They have become familiar. Anyway, back to my apartment floor... The floor is covered with old indoor/outdoor carpet that has raveling spots here and there. The floor underneath is concrete that is not level overall, and has lots of 'bumps' in it, since it was not meant to be anything more than a basement floor. All the bumps make it difficult to vacuum out the dust and dirt. My handy-dandy vacuum cleaner is more of a 'dustbuster on a stick', but works great for this small space. I can plug it into one of my few electrical outlets and the cord reaches throughout my whole place. :) Anyway, so, I'm thinking as I'm trying to cover each little spot on the floor, coming from different directions to find the best angle to reach those little crevices, that this would be easier if this floor wasn't being used for something that it wasn't designed for. It made me think about my life.
God created me to be a certain way, to follow His particular plan. But He also gave me a free will and the ability to choose how I want to live my life. Of course, some of those decisions I have made have created some 'bumps' that make it hard to get to the dirt in those 'crevices' I've created through my choices. Some of the difficulties I experience in keeping my life clean and maintained are like vacuuming an old carpet over a bumpy cement floor. It's not all smooth sailing. Sometimes I have to go over the same 'spot' many times. Sometimes I have to come at a 'problem area' from different angles to get the job done. My little vac is simple and basic, but with the 'right power' it functions just fine. God gives me the power and the tools I need to not only get through each day, but to explore, learn, cleanup, enjoy and share each experience. Instead of complaining that my walk with Him is not easy, smooth and flat, I am going to try to rejoice in that fact that there are bumps and crevices that require a little more attention from me and power from Him to tackle. I'm glad to be on this bumpy ride with Him.
I guess you could say that I'm finding Joy in my bumpy concrete floor!
Speaking of bumps...
You know when you're driving down the road and you go over those little hills that make your stomach flutter a little before you start down the other side? (a dear family I know calls those 'tickle bellies'). Some of the bumps we go over with God are like that. Not too high, out of our control enough to make us flutter a little, and a little exhilarating after the plunge. Not being a fan of rollercoasters and the like, I enjoy these little tickle bellie hills. They make me smile and I'm thankful that God cares enough for me to give me that little Joy.
I pray you find Joy today. I'm looking forward to my next 'hands-on' lesson from God. I wonder what He's trying to teach me about all this dust...
This morning as I was vacuuming my room, I was thinking about how it's a little difficult and comparing that to my life. You see, I live in a room in the corner of the basement of my building. It's next to the boiler room and across the hall from the elevator maintenance room. I've grown accustomed to the unique noises that these motors and machines make. They have become familiar. Anyway, back to my apartment floor... The floor is covered with old indoor/outdoor carpet that has raveling spots here and there. The floor underneath is concrete that is not level overall, and has lots of 'bumps' in it, since it was not meant to be anything more than a basement floor. All the bumps make it difficult to vacuum out the dust and dirt. My handy-dandy vacuum cleaner is more of a 'dustbuster on a stick', but works great for this small space. I can plug it into one of my few electrical outlets and the cord reaches throughout my whole place. :) Anyway, so, I'm thinking as I'm trying to cover each little spot on the floor, coming from different directions to find the best angle to reach those little crevices, that this would be easier if this floor wasn't being used for something that it wasn't designed for. It made me think about my life.
God created me to be a certain way, to follow His particular plan. But He also gave me a free will and the ability to choose how I want to live my life. Of course, some of those decisions I have made have created some 'bumps' that make it hard to get to the dirt in those 'crevices' I've created through my choices. Some of the difficulties I experience in keeping my life clean and maintained are like vacuuming an old carpet over a bumpy cement floor. It's not all smooth sailing. Sometimes I have to go over the same 'spot' many times. Sometimes I have to come at a 'problem area' from different angles to get the job done. My little vac is simple and basic, but with the 'right power' it functions just fine. God gives me the power and the tools I need to not only get through each day, but to explore, learn, cleanup, enjoy and share each experience. Instead of complaining that my walk with Him is not easy, smooth and flat, I am going to try to rejoice in that fact that there are bumps and crevices that require a little more attention from me and power from Him to tackle. I'm glad to be on this bumpy ride with Him.
I guess you could say that I'm finding Joy in my bumpy concrete floor!
Speaking of bumps...
You know when you're driving down the road and you go over those little hills that make your stomach flutter a little before you start down the other side? (a dear family I know calls those 'tickle bellies'). Some of the bumps we go over with God are like that. Not too high, out of our control enough to make us flutter a little, and a little exhilarating after the plunge. Not being a fan of rollercoasters and the like, I enjoy these little tickle bellie hills. They make me smile and I'm thankful that God cares enough for me to give me that little Joy.
I pray you find Joy today. I'm looking forward to my next 'hands-on' lesson from God. I wonder what He's trying to teach me about all this dust...
Saturday, February 14, 2009
February 14, 2009
Happy Valentine's Day!
A day set aside each year to think about love, sweethearts, chocolate, flowers, jewelry, and all those other 'treats' in life that we find so sweet! Unfortunately, some people find this day to be depressing because they think they are missing out on love by not having a 'special someone' at the moment. I understand; I've been there in my past. It's been years since I've had a romantic someone in my life, and I'm very happy about that! I don't feel deprived at all by not having a romantic someone in my life.
God has filled my heart with all levels of that concept called 'love'.
I love Him so much. No one could be more faithful and true. No one could love me so unconditionally and be so forgiving and patient with me.
He gives me family and friends with whom to share the seasons of my life. Each relationship is as unique as the person I'm sharing it with. People who love me will lift me up to the Father, be honest in conversation, encourage and correct me, help me grow, share the joys and also the sorrows of my life.
He gives me a deep contentment, that I call love, for the work He allows me to do here in His name.
I'm so glad that 'love' isn't just romantic feelings between 2 people. Don't get me wrong, that kind of love is beautiful and a gift from God, and I do respect it (even though joke about it sometimes). I'm seriously glad that God created us with feelings and desires and emotions like happiness and joy. I'm also thankful that He can make 'love' meaningful on so many levels.
Now, back to today. Here's what I 'love' about the day He gave me:
A day set aside each year to think about love, sweethearts, chocolate, flowers, jewelry, and all those other 'treats' in life that we find so sweet! Unfortunately, some people find this day to be depressing because they think they are missing out on love by not having a 'special someone' at the moment. I understand; I've been there in my past. It's been years since I've had a romantic someone in my life, and I'm very happy about that! I don't feel deprived at all by not having a romantic someone in my life.
God has filled my heart with all levels of that concept called 'love'.
I love Him so much. No one could be more faithful and true. No one could love me so unconditionally and be so forgiving and patient with me.
He gives me family and friends with whom to share the seasons of my life. Each relationship is as unique as the person I'm sharing it with. People who love me will lift me up to the Father, be honest in conversation, encourage and correct me, help me grow, share the joys and also the sorrows of my life.
He gives me a deep contentment, that I call love, for the work He allows me to do here in His name.
I'm so glad that 'love' isn't just romantic feelings between 2 people. Don't get me wrong, that kind of love is beautiful and a gift from God, and I do respect it (even though joke about it sometimes). I'm seriously glad that God created us with feelings and desires and emotions like happiness and joy. I'm also thankful that He can make 'love' meaningful on so many levels.
Now, back to today. Here's what I 'love' about the day He gave me:
- I woke up feeling better than I have in the last week.
- My friend, Ashley, came by with a goodie basket of some of my favorite things: strawberries, blueberries, tea, fresh veggies, hummus, and purple tulips!!
- My lunch with Ashley was yummy - organic greens and fresh veggies on the bottom, grilled Mediterranean veggies on top with grilled salmon
- A stop in at my favorite natural store for a carrot-pear-orange-ginger juice - YUM
- Visits with 4 friends at the old space building
- Observing 'interesting' people on the bus home
- A stop in the library near my home
- Receiving cards in the mail
- Getting 'valentine' wishes from friends near and far by email and facebook
I'm praying that everyone feels love from someone today. And I pray especially that everyone stops to listen to God's words of love for them.
Blessings and Joy and Love to You!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
February 11, 2009
It's Wednesday evening and I feel like I've lost most of the week by being sick. I'm praying that this cold/virus thing is the only one for the winter and spring. I know, it could be worse and could be the flu, but I just hate being 'held down' by sickness. Especially since I'm feeling so much better after the bout with my liver this fall. I'm just whiny today, I guess. Seriously, I'm thankful for every day that God gives me, no matter how I feel. (I just like to feel good!)
I've had the chance to get a lot more computer work done this week so far, since I haven't been able to serve in the shelters. Working from home has its advantages. And by not running across the city each day, I'm staying on top of my reading and Bible study. Good stuff.
I'm praying for friends who have had some difficult moments this week. Family illness, brutal deaths of friends, relationship issues, loss of income, personal sickness, etc. So many challenges for so many people. But we are held in the hands of a big God who knows every situation, tear and anxious breath. God has the answer for every concern, no matter how big or small. He takes good care of us, even when we don't see it because we're looking for 'our' version of the solution. Through every situation, He gives us the best gifts of all: His love and the chance to trust Him more with each day. I'd rather cling to Him through the roughest times than to have all I desire in a materially secure world. I do have to remind myself of that sometimes when I begin to fret over things. I'm glad to have reminders of how faithful He is in the provision of love, peace, assurance, faith, grace, mercy and promise. When we have eternal life with Him promised to us, how can we rightfully feel deprived on the journey? (I need to read this to myself daily.) And I'm thankful that He is forgiving over and over, as I have to be repeatedly reminded of His faithfulness. What a God we serve.
I'm working on what to bring with me to the missions conference at my home church, FBC Rogers AR, next month. I'm so excited to get to see everyone. It's an exciting homecoming. (can you imaging how more exciting the 'big homecoming' will be?) I try to think of what I can share so that people back home can really understand what life is like here in NYC, not just for me, but for the people who live here. I believe that to really effectively pray for people, you need to understand as much as possible about their lives. God knows all about each of us, but lifting someone up to Him grows us, too. The more we can understand others and their walks, the more we can appreciate just how big God is and how He can minister to them all in all their needs. And through that understanding and compassion, God can use us more effectively.
I wish I could bring all my friends from NYC with me to Rogers and introduce everyone to each other. I'd love for them all to know each other the way I do. I guess by doing all I can to help everyone have a relationship with Jesus, I'll be helping make it possible for everyone to finally meet in Heaven someday. One of the best Joys I can think of is to be surrounded by everyone I love and worshipping together at the Father's feet. Now, that's something to look forward to!!
In the meantime, I'll just try to put together some pictures and stories about my life here in NYC and how God has blessed me with so many people to meet, great friends to worship and serve with, and opportunities to share about Him. I'll leave it to God to help people understand how special each other is.
I'm off to make a salad. Even though my mouth can't really taste anything with this cold, I know that the salad is good for my body. Isn't that like our walk with God sometimes? Even though we don't always get immediate gratification, we know there are things that are good for us and we should follow through? (and that makes those tasty days even yummier!!)
Blessings & Joy!!
I've had the chance to get a lot more computer work done this week so far, since I haven't been able to serve in the shelters. Working from home has its advantages. And by not running across the city each day, I'm staying on top of my reading and Bible study. Good stuff.
I'm praying for friends who have had some difficult moments this week. Family illness, brutal deaths of friends, relationship issues, loss of income, personal sickness, etc. So many challenges for so many people. But we are held in the hands of a big God who knows every situation, tear and anxious breath. God has the answer for every concern, no matter how big or small. He takes good care of us, even when we don't see it because we're looking for 'our' version of the solution. Through every situation, He gives us the best gifts of all: His love and the chance to trust Him more with each day. I'd rather cling to Him through the roughest times than to have all I desire in a materially secure world. I do have to remind myself of that sometimes when I begin to fret over things. I'm glad to have reminders of how faithful He is in the provision of love, peace, assurance, faith, grace, mercy and promise. When we have eternal life with Him promised to us, how can we rightfully feel deprived on the journey? (I need to read this to myself daily.) And I'm thankful that He is forgiving over and over, as I have to be repeatedly reminded of His faithfulness. What a God we serve.
I'm working on what to bring with me to the missions conference at my home church, FBC Rogers AR, next month. I'm so excited to get to see everyone. It's an exciting homecoming. (can you imaging how more exciting the 'big homecoming' will be?) I try to think of what I can share so that people back home can really understand what life is like here in NYC, not just for me, but for the people who live here. I believe that to really effectively pray for people, you need to understand as much as possible about their lives. God knows all about each of us, but lifting someone up to Him grows us, too. The more we can understand others and their walks, the more we can appreciate just how big God is and how He can minister to them all in all their needs. And through that understanding and compassion, God can use us more effectively.
I wish I could bring all my friends from NYC with me to Rogers and introduce everyone to each other. I'd love for them all to know each other the way I do. I guess by doing all I can to help everyone have a relationship with Jesus, I'll be helping make it possible for everyone to finally meet in Heaven someday. One of the best Joys I can think of is to be surrounded by everyone I love and worshipping together at the Father's feet. Now, that's something to look forward to!!
In the meantime, I'll just try to put together some pictures and stories about my life here in NYC and how God has blessed me with so many people to meet, great friends to worship and serve with, and opportunities to share about Him. I'll leave it to God to help people understand how special each other is.
I'm off to make a salad. Even though my mouth can't really taste anything with this cold, I know that the salad is good for my body. Isn't that like our walk with God sometimes? Even though we don't always get immediate gratification, we know there are things that are good for us and we should follow through? (and that makes those tasty days even yummier!!)
Blessings & Joy!!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
February 8, 2009
Some days I can't remember what the date is, time goes by so fast. But today, there is no mistaking that it's the 8th. How do I know? Because my faithful friends, Jack and Nan McCartney always call me on the 8th of every month to wish me a 'happy month-a-versary'. What a treat that is for me! Nan even called from church this morning as she was moving from the choir room to the auditorium to join Jack for Bro Wes' message. That was so special. It made me feel like I was right there. You can be sure that on the 8th of every month I feel Joy!!
Yesterday (Saturday), I ran down to TSAC to sign a contract and pay rent for Parable to meet in a room for tonight. It's always good to see the familiar faces of Pepe (one of the doormen) and others who are tenants in 'our old' building. It's nice that we don't have to completely break ties with these people. On my way there, I stopped in at my favorite juice place and had the usual - carrot, orange, pear, ginger fresh juice cocktail. I need to go by there more often. I just love it and I always feel better after having a good shot of those natural vitamins!
I ventured down to Union Square to check out the farmer's market and maybe get some pics. I've never been there on Saturday before, and didn't know what to expect since it's winter. There were quite a few tents/booths set up. Most of the vendors come from upstate NY, Jersey, etc. There were everything from art, tshirts (lots with Obama on them), fresh bottled milk, homemade cheese, homemade bread and other baked goods, plants, cider, apples, other produce, homemade jams and jellies, herbs, elk meat, lamb, yarn made from sheep's wool, you name it and it was there. I can't wait to see what all is there in the spring and summer! I did treat myself to some cookies - sugar free oatmeal cranberry ones that were made with whole wheat flour and sweetened with grape juice. They were pretty good. I found a park bench in the sun and munched and then I spent some time talking to my Mom on the phone. It was nice to just hang out there for awhile.
Then I took the train up to 59th & 5th Ave to the SE corner of Central Park. I got some pics of The Plaza hotel, 'toy' soldiers at FAO Schwartz, horse carriages lined up for tourists, etc. I was surprised at how much snow was still on the grass in Central Park. But I guess with shade from all the little hills and the trees and the bridges, etc., that the snow hadn't had a chance to melt yet. Lots of people were just walking about. I love watching people in the park.
I stopped by my fav food store, Whole Foods, for some fresh produce and then headed home. I love shopping at Whole Foods because they have so much variety in produce, nuts, grains, seeds, organic stuff, etc. I'm still enjoying experimenting with foods that I had never seen before in the Midwest and South. Raw, natural and organic are my new goals. I've finally grown accustomed to buying food like a New Yorker - single vegetables and fruits at a time, small amounts of everything, etc. First of all, you have to carry it all home, so you only buy what you can comfortably haul with 2 hands. Then, I have no place to keep stuff, so it's not feasible to stock up. Also, fresh, natural, organic food doesn't have a long shelf life (that's why it's better for me) so I only get what I will eat for a couple of days. Then it's back to the store. But I like it this way. The exercise is good and I don't take the food for granted.
Speaking of healthy... I'm feeling so much better than I was in Oct/Nov. And I'm so thankful! Thank you for your prayers!! However, I'm still struggling with keeping my liver happy and getting it healthy. I can tell if I haven't gotten enough rest or if I have 'treated' myself to 'regular' food. Please keep me in your prayers to stay as diligent as possible to what is good for my body with it's particular problems. Also, I need to stay as healthy as possible so that my body can fight colds and viruses. I can't take cold meds and even tylenol or asprin are not good for me. Pray I keep my insides clean and healthy. That goes for my liver (physical) as well as my 'heart and soul'. I want only to put into my heart and mind what is wholesome in God's eyes. This physical journey helps me keep focused on the healthy spiritual journey as well.
This week's Bible study is on Hannah. It's been very enlightening. I love the way God reveals unexpected things with each study. I'm also participating in a book discussion group with some friends from Parable and others. We're reading 'The Reason for God' by Tim Keller. We will share with each other weekly via the Facebook page for this group. (we do this a lot here in NYC where it's tough to get together physically) I am really enjoying all the reading and studying that I'm getting to do right now. There is so much for God to show us. And also, so much to share with others.
I can't share everything about the opportunities that God is bringing for me to share Him with others on this blog, because I want to respect the privacy of those I talk with. But please know that He is working in mighty ways and I'm thankful for all the encounters and conversations and new relationships that will help to spread His word and love. Thank you for helping me to be here to do His work. Thank you for your love and prayers and support.
Be blessed and look for the JOY! Oh yeah, and happy month-a-versary! We're in this ministry together!
Yesterday (Saturday), I ran down to TSAC to sign a contract and pay rent for Parable to meet in a room for tonight. It's always good to see the familiar faces of Pepe (one of the doormen) and others who are tenants in 'our old' building. It's nice that we don't have to completely break ties with these people. On my way there, I stopped in at my favorite juice place and had the usual - carrot, orange, pear, ginger fresh juice cocktail. I need to go by there more often. I just love it and I always feel better after having a good shot of those natural vitamins!
I ventured down to Union Square to check out the farmer's market and maybe get some pics. I've never been there on Saturday before, and didn't know what to expect since it's winter. There were quite a few tents/booths set up. Most of the vendors come from upstate NY, Jersey, etc. There were everything from art, tshirts (lots with Obama on them), fresh bottled milk, homemade cheese, homemade bread and other baked goods, plants, cider, apples, other produce, homemade jams and jellies, herbs, elk meat, lamb, yarn made from sheep's wool, you name it and it was there. I can't wait to see what all is there in the spring and summer! I did treat myself to some cookies - sugar free oatmeal cranberry ones that were made with whole wheat flour and sweetened with grape juice. They were pretty good. I found a park bench in the sun and munched and then I spent some time talking to my Mom on the phone. It was nice to just hang out there for awhile.
Then I took the train up to 59th & 5th Ave to the SE corner of Central Park. I got some pics of The Plaza hotel, 'toy' soldiers at FAO Schwartz, horse carriages lined up for tourists, etc. I was surprised at how much snow was still on the grass in Central Park. But I guess with shade from all the little hills and the trees and the bridges, etc., that the snow hadn't had a chance to melt yet. Lots of people were just walking about. I love watching people in the park.
I stopped by my fav food store, Whole Foods, for some fresh produce and then headed home. I love shopping at Whole Foods because they have so much variety in produce, nuts, grains, seeds, organic stuff, etc. I'm still enjoying experimenting with foods that I had never seen before in the Midwest and South. Raw, natural and organic are my new goals. I've finally grown accustomed to buying food like a New Yorker - single vegetables and fruits at a time, small amounts of everything, etc. First of all, you have to carry it all home, so you only buy what you can comfortably haul with 2 hands. Then, I have no place to keep stuff, so it's not feasible to stock up. Also, fresh, natural, organic food doesn't have a long shelf life (that's why it's better for me) so I only get what I will eat for a couple of days. Then it's back to the store. But I like it this way. The exercise is good and I don't take the food for granted.
Speaking of healthy... I'm feeling so much better than I was in Oct/Nov. And I'm so thankful! Thank you for your prayers!! However, I'm still struggling with keeping my liver happy and getting it healthy. I can tell if I haven't gotten enough rest or if I have 'treated' myself to 'regular' food. Please keep me in your prayers to stay as diligent as possible to what is good for my body with it's particular problems. Also, I need to stay as healthy as possible so that my body can fight colds and viruses. I can't take cold meds and even tylenol or asprin are not good for me. Pray I keep my insides clean and healthy. That goes for my liver (physical) as well as my 'heart and soul'. I want only to put into my heart and mind what is wholesome in God's eyes. This physical journey helps me keep focused on the healthy spiritual journey as well.
This week's Bible study is on Hannah. It's been very enlightening. I love the way God reveals unexpected things with each study. I'm also participating in a book discussion group with some friends from Parable and others. We're reading 'The Reason for God' by Tim Keller. We will share with each other weekly via the Facebook page for this group. (we do this a lot here in NYC where it's tough to get together physically) I am really enjoying all the reading and studying that I'm getting to do right now. There is so much for God to show us. And also, so much to share with others.
I can't share everything about the opportunities that God is bringing for me to share Him with others on this blog, because I want to respect the privacy of those I talk with. But please know that He is working in mighty ways and I'm thankful for all the encounters and conversations and new relationships that will help to spread His word and love. Thank you for helping me to be here to do His work. Thank you for your love and prayers and support.
Be blessed and look for the JOY! Oh yeah, and happy month-a-versary! We're in this ministry together!
Friday, February 6, 2009
February 6, 2009
It's Friday night and I'm home warming up after being out on the streets in the cold. I'm so thankful that it was warmer today than last night! And it's supposed to be up in the 40s tomorrow!! woohoo!
Today I was blessed to get to work at both Clinton Sr Center and Grand Central Neighborhood. I met more volunteers today, as well as seeing some familiar clients. Here's a few thoughts...
One of the volunteers I met today has an interesting story. She lost a good job because of cutbacks. To get assistance to help through the time till she can get another job, she was put into a program which requires a certain amount of time working in the center. She's a neat lady who is hoping to be a Foster mother in the future. I'll get to work with her once a week. I also met 4 volunteers who are students at NYU. It's always interesting to me to hear about what people are studying. One of the clients at GCN was very distraught a few weeks ago when I asked how he was. Last week he had his Bible with him at dinner and said his answers were in that book. This week he was praising God for helping him get a job. Awesome... After helping in the kitchen at GCN tonight, I got to help set up and decorate for a fundraiser. The goodies were donated from some very nice bakeries. They looked delicious. But I only looked...
On the way home tonight, I stopped at Wendy's and used the last of the balance on my gift card. I get the grilled chicken go wrap and baked potato off of the 'value menu'. (I squeezed 3 meals off of this one gift card from last summer!) My bus home stops right in front. Very handy. It was a nice treat.
I got to meet with the pastor from the church upstairs from the space yesterday. We had given them some of our personal stuff and things donated by mission teams when we moved out of the space. It was nice to see these items being used at their church and continuing to be used for God's kingdom in NYC. Pastor Ed has been a good encourager to both me and Mike. I appreciate the time he takes for our conversations. I'm passing on to him the information I've put together for NYC missions to help them with organizing volunteer teams coming to support their church.
Last night was a blast working at Coffeehouse. I got to see Alfonso, who usually works on Sundays. I haven't been there on a Sunday for a while, so it was good to see him last night. Augustine, Derek, Travis, AJ and Clarence were all working, too. Some of the clients are getting used to seeing me regularly now and even thank me for coming. I'm looking forward to having some serious and enlightening conversations with them. I enjoy so much getting to volunteer at the three centers each week. I was thinking today about how funny it is that part of my ministry is to wear a hairnet 5 days a week.
I need to spend some serious time on my Bible study this weekend. We're studying Hannah. I love how God speaks through His Word in just the right way at just the right time. There are a few of us who meet on Tuesday evenings for the study. And a few others join the conversations by a FaceBook page created for the study. We had to skip a couple of weeks while a few people were out of town, so it will be good to get back together next week!
I'm also working on putting together info to bring to AR when I go home in March for a missions conference at my home church. The time will be here before I know it. I really want to share the details of this ministry with all the people who make it possible for me to be here - all the prayer partners and financial supporters. I'm working on gathering pictures and other stuff. I need to get busy!!
But for now, I'll turn off the computer and get some rest.
Today I was blessed to get to work at both Clinton Sr Center and Grand Central Neighborhood. I met more volunteers today, as well as seeing some familiar clients. Here's a few thoughts...
One of the volunteers I met today has an interesting story. She lost a good job because of cutbacks. To get assistance to help through the time till she can get another job, she was put into a program which requires a certain amount of time working in the center. She's a neat lady who is hoping to be a Foster mother in the future. I'll get to work with her once a week. I also met 4 volunteers who are students at NYU. It's always interesting to me to hear about what people are studying. One of the clients at GCN was very distraught a few weeks ago when I asked how he was. Last week he had his Bible with him at dinner and said his answers were in that book. This week he was praising God for helping him get a job. Awesome... After helping in the kitchen at GCN tonight, I got to help set up and decorate for a fundraiser. The goodies were donated from some very nice bakeries. They looked delicious. But I only looked...
On the way home tonight, I stopped at Wendy's and used the last of the balance on my gift card. I get the grilled chicken go wrap and baked potato off of the 'value menu'. (I squeezed 3 meals off of this one gift card from last summer!) My bus home stops right in front. Very handy. It was a nice treat.
I got to meet with the pastor from the church upstairs from the space yesterday. We had given them some of our personal stuff and things donated by mission teams when we moved out of the space. It was nice to see these items being used at their church and continuing to be used for God's kingdom in NYC. Pastor Ed has been a good encourager to both me and Mike. I appreciate the time he takes for our conversations. I'm passing on to him the information I've put together for NYC missions to help them with organizing volunteer teams coming to support their church.
Last night was a blast working at Coffeehouse. I got to see Alfonso, who usually works on Sundays. I haven't been there on a Sunday for a while, so it was good to see him last night. Augustine, Derek, Travis, AJ and Clarence were all working, too. Some of the clients are getting used to seeing me regularly now and even thank me for coming. I'm looking forward to having some serious and enlightening conversations with them. I enjoy so much getting to volunteer at the three centers each week. I was thinking today about how funny it is that part of my ministry is to wear a hairnet 5 days a week.
I need to spend some serious time on my Bible study this weekend. We're studying Hannah. I love how God speaks through His Word in just the right way at just the right time. There are a few of us who meet on Tuesday evenings for the study. And a few others join the conversations by a FaceBook page created for the study. We had to skip a couple of weeks while a few people were out of town, so it will be good to get back together next week!
I'm also working on putting together info to bring to AR when I go home in March for a missions conference at my home church. The time will be here before I know it. I really want to share the details of this ministry with all the people who make it possible for me to be here - all the prayer partners and financial supporters. I'm working on gathering pictures and other stuff. I need to get busy!!
But for now, I'll turn off the computer and get some rest.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
February 4, 2009
It's Wednesday and the week seems longer, but in a good way. God has really been blessing me with lots of opportunities to talk with and work with many people each week lately. Every encounter and conversation is like a gift to me. There is so much to learn when you stop to really interact with people. I'm very thankful that my 'job' is to invest my time in people. I don't deserve this privilege, and I won't take it for granted. Please pray for me to always see (and hear) people from God's perspective; to be ready to share Christ in the way most appropriate for them to see (and hear) Him.
Friday and Monday I enjoyed serving lunch at Clinton Sr. Center, which is just 9 blocks from my place. It's so convenient. One of the things I really love about the Clinton center is that most of the clients are Hispanic. I enjoy hearing them speaking, especially when I can recognize some of the words. They are a very friendly bunch, too. Right after lunch, there are activities they can choose to participate in, including dance lessons, computer classes, and of course, Bingo! I'm going to drop off some little 'prizes' to be used for Bingo. (you can send me some things to use for prizes if you wish - or even better, check out the senior centers in your area and donate to them!)
Just one of the blessings of volunteering with the Seniors is to get to hear their stories. Such interesting lives. Even if they may be living a very simple existence now (or even be homeless in NYC), they have not always been in their current situation. And in this world of high expectations, it's nice to have a relationship with someone who just wants to visit and talk. There is nothing as precious as spending your time with someone. It's a true gift of yourself.
Sunday I got to spend time with my friend Ashley. She came up to my neck of the woods and we had salads outdoors at a nearby restaurant. It was a little chilly, but the sun was out and it was nice to be outside. We then went shopping at my favorite store - Whole Foods, and picked up snacks for the Parable Superbowl get-together. I bought stuff I could eat, like hummus, carrots, baked organic corn chips, roasted soybean and corn kernels, and a whole pineapple (which was on sale, but we never did cut open). Ashely tried her best to find the fixin's for Rotel dip. No Rotel in the Upper West Side, so she settled for salsa to add to the Velveeta and ground beef. We came back to my place and cooked up the dip. (it smelled so good!) We finally made our way to the East Side for the get-together. Needless to say, people loved the dip. The transplanted southerners were happy to see an old favorite, and the non-Southerners gobbled it up, too.
I visited with my friend Allyson who cuts my hair. She's moved over to the East Side and I take 2 buses for about an hour (one-way) trip. But I enjoy talking with her and she's always happy to talk about God. And she enjoys chopping my hair off! She's from Guyana, and I love her accent!
Last evening, I met my friend Cody for dinner. We went to Chinatown. Cody is Chinese and moved to NYC when he was about 2 years old. He knows all the good places to eat! He ordered our dinner speaking Chinese, so I had no idea what we were getting till it came to the table. It was very good and I tried using my chopsticks until hunger won out and I had to switch to a fork. Then we went next door to a bakery and had Bubble Tea drinks. Actually, instead of tea, we both had Bubble Fresh Fruit drinks. Mine was like a strawberry smoothie with the large black tapioca 'bubbles'. You get a big fat straw for sucking up the bubbles (or pearls, as they are also called). The bubbles are kind of chewy and really don't have any flavor, but they are kind of fun.
I always like a new adventure. Cody is always great about showing me new places and things about NYC. Cody and I always have good, deep conversations. We can be totally honest about things, even when we don't agree. He encourages me and challenges me and blesses me. Please keep Cody in your prayers as he continues his journey in having a deeper relationship with our Father.
Today, I'll be meeting with my friend Jenny after her shift of interning at Amy's Bread. We'll grab a bite to eat and talk about cooking and nutrition and stuff like that. Jenny has offered to help me with my Spanish. Her family is from Puerto Rico and she has lived in NYC all her life. She loves cooking and especially baking. We also have some open and interesting conversations about God. I'm so thankful for all those in my life that keep me seeking and searching and growing in my walk with Him.
Another thing I am thankful for here in NYC is that God has surrounded me with people who have such a variety of interests. With each friendship, I'm allowed to grow in a different way. And yet, we have a common bond of seeking a meaningful relationship with the Father. Even those people I am acquainted with who aren't Christians are seeking a meaningful relationship of some kind. That's where God provides those opportunities to share how important He is in my life.
I caught up on reading Bro. Wes George's (Sr Pastor at my home church, FBC Rogers AR) yesterday. I am encouraged about his words explaining the need to be authentic salt and light in whatever circumstances God places us in. We are all created by God, but not all created for the same walk in life. He knows best how to use each of us. We need to be obedient to be ready so that we can be aware of the needs (physical, emotional, spiritual) of people around us. Please pray that I stay aware and ready to share Him.
Now I'm heading out into the cold for lunch with Jenny and then to the soup kitchen to serve tonight. My heart goes out to all those who have no home tonight. It will be bitterly cold. I'm thankful that some will have a hot meal and at least a chair to sleep in at GCN. Please pray not only for those who seek refuge in the shelters, but also for all those workers who make the shelters possible. Especially during this time of recession when a lot of the agencies are hit with budget cuts.
I'm praying for friends in AR that are still without power. I'm thankful that it will only be for a while and not permanent. I pray for safety in the cold for everyone. I pray for the warmth of God's love in everyone's heart.
Blessings!!
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