Jesus on the Streets - January 7, 2024
Today was cold and wet, serving in the first snowstorm of 2024 (at times it seemed like blizzard conditions). The weather was bad enough that we had a bet going for how many people we would serve today. The over-under was 50 people (Deb said 50 or fewer and I said more than 50) and the bet was bragging rights. We served 46 people so I lost, but that’s probably a good thing because it means our friends were hunkered down staying warm and dry. (Actually a number of people did not take a meal just a hot drink and prayer, so maybe I won?) However, we served really large portions (Mozambique chicken casserole) so I could probably argue I won since we went through 80 meals worth of food. It’s all fine because our friends really needed it. Deb was so thankful that the Holy Spirit led her to fill the truck with snow pants, long underwear, and thermal socks which were available for those most vulnerable to the elements living outside. Everyone who needed them received and were overjoyed to have another layer to stay warm!
There were only a few prayer requests as many people were in a hurry to get back into whatever shelter they had available.
Michel is praying for protection on the streets.
Terry is praying that the homeless shelter becomes a safer place.
Rashawn is hoping to stay warm and dry.
Karen is praying to make better decisions.
Anthony needs prayers for his twisted ankle to heal.
Robert was super thankful for the hot meal.
Will is missing his cat (he found it last week) but glad that the owner came and found it.
Tito (in a wheelchair) was huddled under the bridge covered in blankets however he was still cold so we gave him another sleeping bag.
Russell (also in a wheelchair) was watching over some friends while they slept under another bridge.
Jordan was thrilled and thankful to get boots (she was walking around with plastic bags on her feet).
Greg was thankful for any prayer.
We met Jerry at Dunkin’. He had totalled his car yesterday and didn’t know how to get home. He was waiting for a friend to arrive so we offered prayer and bought him a meal.
By the time the day was over we were all soaked to the skin and freezing, but our friends have it a lot worse than we do. It is such an honor to be invited into their lives even in the worst conditions, to provide a bit of comfort and joy each week. Thank you for helping us do that!