Part 3: January 24, 2009 - Chilly Willy

I can't fathom or explain in great detail what we did today, but it definitely started with its moments, and ended with tears of joy and gladness. This morning I went to gather some take out boxes from Krogers, Sam's Club, and the Seminary Food Store. They did not have any. Then I stopped by a chinese place which I want to name, but out of self control I will be nice. They had cartons upon cartons of boxes and they wouldn't sell me anymore than 4. At 30 cents a pop I was willing to purchase 30. That's 9 dollars! They would've had enough money to buy 300 more. They didn't budge. So I left everything in God's hands and decided to trust that our group can handle the load. Michael Philips, Jessica and their three kids, Tricia and Jeremiah David, Jonathan Sharp and I headed out in another outreach to feed and clothe these homeless people. This time the group moved further into the canal area, and camped out. They started a fire just inside the area. They were located just outside a restaurant called "San Luis" Mexican restaurant. When we arrived we pulled a table and put all the food out. There was Jessica's yummy chicken and dumplings, Jonathan and I made Maccaroni with cheese and beef, and Tricia and Jeremiahs bread, brownies and other sweet delicacies. The homeless guys were so happy. There were about 10 there when we arrived. Anthony got in another fight and this time he was bloodied pretty badly. He was causing trouble and Manuel another guy pounded him. Manuel was a great guy. His wife and children were at their homes, but he was divorced and separated. He had very little, but he genuinely wanted to read the Bible, and pray with us. There were other familiar faces, but I don't recall some of their names. I met Daniel, and some other guys that were in tears overall the support. The most touching moment was when Jonathan gave up his jacket for Anthony. Anthony was cold but he didn't admit it. In the end we prayed together. When we finished Jeremiah, Tricia, and I headed back to the seminary to get more firewood. We packed his Ford Explorer, and picked up Jonathan to haul over all the firewood. The firewood would keep them warm for the next three days as it will average in the high 20s. There we met Frank. Frank was sober, and wanted to get his life right so he can see his wife and kid. He wanted a shower, and work. But he would do all this for free. We pray that God will use these opportunities to show more of his saving grace. I don't know how this is going to work, but we will do whatever it takes to love on these people. When we left the second time, we took Anthony to his home, and he almost ran us over. It was fine, but it was quite scary. Anyway enjoy some of the pictures.