As much as we might feel that we might be bringing the Good News of Jesus through our service, the power of being here is often seen when our work becomes flesh.
What I mean is that we can do some cleaning, building, sorting, and moving, and then just leave. But everything changes when a person proclaims that they are alive because of the work that others have done and they assure us that because of our work the “life saving” work will continue. Josh Hurley, a 14 year old Freshman at Whitney Young had such an encounter.
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Josh: today being here really hit me when I started meeting all of these people at the Salvation Army Mission, where I was working today. Everyone had a unique life story about how they got to the Mission. Like I met this guy named Shaggy, he was a guy like who went through some really hard times when he was young. He later sold drugs while in high school and in college. He lived a double life with his Christian friends and his drug customers. He was busted while in college and went to prison.
When he got out a friend brought him to the Salvation Army Mission so that he could have a place to stay. That was years ago. His life was saved by coming to this place.
The main thing I learned today is that anybody’s life can change from one bad decision and God can change any life that has been messed up if we let Him.
I’m learning to decrease by not focusing so much on me and what I want to do all day. I’m going to allow Christ to Increase in me by really trying to focus more on talking to God.
The students are really starting to bond with their work sites. Wednesday, “hump day” is going to be very hard. Everyone will change sites and have new work assignments. They are also starting to get tired and that means that tempers can flare giving a foothold for the Evil One. Pray for our rest, patients, and Godly wisdom to bear each other’s burdens.
Hope you enjoy more random work site pictures.
More tomorrow. Pastor James
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Okay Pastory J, we are praying for the refreshed spirits and renewed strenght for you and the kids to get over hump day.
Pastor A.
Great to see the youth learn about the gift of serving others. Thanks for sharing and keeping us close to their Mission Trip.
Josh,
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience. I am excited for the growth you are experiencing through this time. You will reap what you sow my son! Love you! Dad
The pictures are great! However stop all that smiling and get back to work!(Just kidding) Josh H.’s story was very moving.
Hey Emmaus,
I have told anyone that would listen about you guys. Some people were shocked to hear about youth on a mission trip and others wished that they had an opportunity to serve at such a young age. Continue to move forward and only forward by making the most of your best.
Hi Tyler, we miss you and your music.
Love Mom, Dad and Bear