New Project

Growing up, I've always wondered what type of a person become homeless.  Is there a "type"? Are the reasons and circumstances as varied as you and me? Are they simply bums and alcoholics?  


Approximately 2 winters ago my church partnered with another to start a homeless ministry.  Not a shelter, a ministry.  It began simply as a place for the homeless in the proximity of our church's building to go when the temperature dropped below 45 degrees.  My son and I served on several occasions.  He stayed longer and talked to many of the men and came home with heartbreaking stories.  Ever since then I have had the urging to write about these people.


When I say I have had the 'urge' to write, I mean that the Holy Spirit is directing me to do so. When He says go I go.  When He says do I do.  I have no idea what it is that I'm supposed to write about.  That's exciting.  Will it be a fictional tale based on a compilation of people?  Will it be non-fiction, revealing the stories of those who are willing to share? Will it be an introspective story of how I and others feel and what we have learned through their stories? 


I ask you to pray for me and the direction God wants to take me in this journey.  I have my first interview on Friday with the Chairman of Matthew's Hope.  I have e-mail interviews with two volunteer servants coming in this week. Next week on Tuesday I will be spending the entire day at Matthew's Hope and God willing, will be interviewing several men, women, and families who are being served by this ministry. 


I also ask this, if there is anything you would like to add, please email me or comment on this post.  Do you know someone who is homeless who would be willing to be interviewed?  Have you been homeless would like to be a part of this? Do you now or in the past worked with a homeless ministry and would like to share your experiences? 


Lastly, I ask that if you are moved in any way to help, contact your local homeless ministry or check out www.matthewshopeministries.org. 


God bless and remember this:  Luke 14:13 But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, ¹⁴ and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”