Today I attended my first "event" at Port of Grace. It was the monthly pizza night. A while ago, one of the members went to the city and asked what's the best way we as a church could do something practical to help our community. The city said, something helpful would be to have a meal offered to people on the week just before welfare cheques come out. And so was born our "Pizza Night". Pizza offered to anyone who will show, as much as will last. I don't think anyone went home hungry or wanting more. We had a pretty big group of people there. Adults and even some young kids.
At one point as I was people watching something hit me. It was Jesus words, the highways and bi-ways. You probably know the context of the passage, but as I looked at these people, hungry, being fed, eating away, coming up for more, I was moved by the thoughts that flooded my mind. Jesus loves them, regardless of where they are (many of them recovering alcoholics and the like.) As I stood there I was moved to just go and sit with several of them and talk. And boy, did they like to talk. And they really didn't care that I was the new pastor...they were really cool with that. In their eyes it was just cool that we were doing this together. When I offered to go and get some pizza for a lady and did, the group just broke out into applause as if I'd done some incredible deed. I didn't know how to react.
Pure honesty, no pretenses, a real sense of appreciation and thanksgiving. Joy all around, regardless of circumstances. Oh yes, and lots of hockey talk. I made a date with one of the guys to bring my chess board next time. He's all excited...I am too!
I can honestly say, there would be nothing I would rather have been doing tonight. Absolutely nothing.
I love being here and I love ministering to those coming from the highways and bi-ways. I have so much to learn, but I know Jesus wants to show me the way.
May God blesss you wherever he's put you!
Posted by edThat's what it's all about... Jesus showing us the way.
The fact that you are honest, without pretense, appreciative, thankful and joyful makes it so nice for all of us, who are finding the way beside you.
Glad it was a good night :)
Posted by: wilsonianthis all sounds so similar to graffiti, ed.
It's great to hear that this is going on in a small town in canada, too!
can't wait to read about the stories and events to come!
thinking and praying for you in your new journey.
and we miss you guys!