I've mentioned that my church hosts IHN homeless families, but I forgot to mention the best thing that's happened so far.
Last time, we had the maximum number of guests -- fourteen. On Saturday, there were nine kids and one John. They ran me ragged.
But one of the kids, Michael (7), asked if we could look inside the sanctuary. So he rounded up the kids, I unlocked the sanctuary, and we went in. For most of the kids, this was their first time inside a church in years. They were mesmerized by its beauty.
Michael had the idea that we should pray. So we all knelt at the communion rail and prayed. Again, for most of the kids, this was a new experience.
Later that day, the kids approached me and begged to go to the sanctuary and pray. So we went again.
For these kids, their first (or at least most recent) experience with the Christian community is that it gave them a home and food. Can there be any better way to share the Gospel message?
Sunday, August 20, 2006
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7 comments:
john, that is very cool. thanks for letting Christ use you.
Great stuff.
For once, John and I are in agreement. I shall pause while the earth stops shaking.
My church participated in the IHN several years ago and it was one of the best things that ever happened.
Each of our Sunday School classes, including the senior youth, prepared one of the meals that week. I spent the night as one of the overnight "watchers". It gave the people who were our guests hope and it gave the church a chance to remember why it was there.
I can agree with you about the experience and I encourage all those who read about the Network to get involved. It is one of the best things you will ever do.
Thanks for sharing this wonderful story. God bless!
John, What a beautiful story, God surely works in marvelous ways.
Don't worry, Tony. Even a stopped conservative is right twice a day. Or something like that.
Thanks for posting your experience. It's amazing how God can use us in such powerful ways.
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