Come as a child, pt 2

I’m trying to resist the urge to be a detective. Many days I am confronted by a unique resident’s story that seems totally plausible. And I find myself having to weigh his words and evaluate whether I’m hearing truth or not. And I don’t want to be a cop because quite frankly I didn’t come to the mission to be a cop and pretty much every one I run into is smarter than I am! So where does that leave me?

I need to become like a child.

Imagine living life as a child might! Imagine laughing as though for the first time. Or crying with no concern about what others are thinking. Imagine loving without reservation. Or speaking instantly and openly. Or being fascinated without any cynicism. Imagine being amazed with no doubts. Or trusting without concern.

I am reminded of how Jesus encouraged us to become like a child! He welcomed children to his lap and treated them with great tenderness and drew attention to their native qualities. And with His example I can lay aside my impulse to be a detective. Some guys have and will ‘get over’ on me. Many will talk faster, argue harder, and debate better than I! And that’s okay! Success here is not about how slick I am nor how often I can lay out a superior argument in a discussion but how much like a child I can be as I live for my Father. It is when I am, and we are – childlike – that God will be most evident.

Lord, help me to be less childish and more childlike.

- Steve Brubaker, Residential Ministries

God's provision

Once again, we are amazed at how God provides - and reassures us that He is in control.

We were greatly blessed when, after putting out a plea before Thanksgiving that we were low on turkeys as we approached our two large giveaways (Thanksgiving and Christmas), God provided more than enough through his people. When the counting was done, we had over 3000 turkeys to use for our food box giveaway programs in partnership with local churches, and to use for meals throughout the year. We were even able to share the blessing with other ministries that help families in need in our community.

This week, we became aware of the fact that City Team Ministries in Chester (a ministry similar to Water Street that we have some contact with) was facing a shortage of turkeys and food for their holiday food program. We quickly decided to share what God had blessed us with in order to help our fellow ministers care for their community... but after evaluating where this left our supplies, we realized that we had begun to deplete what we had hoped to keep and use throughout the year for our services at Water Street. Problem was, the truck from City Team was on its way, and we could not go back on our commitment to help an immediate need in order to maintain what we felt was a needed surplus - it didn't seem right to any of us.

Enter God... while we were awaiting the arrival of the truck from City Team to pick up 210 turkeys, Steve Hackman received a phone call from a local church telling us that they would like to donate 200 turkeys and 50 hams (we will pick them up next Friday).

God is good. And we are blessed to serve him along with each of you.

-Jack, Steve, and Maurice, Outreach Ministries and Food Service

Where are the parents?

I found this in some old papers. I wrote it a long time ago. Though it is not even good as poetry goes, it does convey very well life at my house at 5 years old.

Raised on TV

Peter was flying; Wendy was smiling and happy.
Daddy was yelling.
Howdy told jokes; we all watched cartoons.
Mommy was screaming at Daddy.
Beanie and Cecil chased Dishonest John; Nell was kissing Dudley’s horse.
Daddy was hitting Mommy with a stick.
Underdog was Shoeshine boy; Sweet Polly always got saved.
Daddy pulled Mommy’s hair.
Sgt. Preston of the Mounties pets King his wonder dog.
Daddy kicked Mommy on floor.
Casper was a friend to all; the Ranger wore a mask.
Daddy bled from both arms.
The Hardy boys find the treasure; Rin Tin Tin helps Rusty out.
Flashing lights? A car that screams? A bed with wheels like my wagon?
Flipper jumps so high; 86 & 99 fight Chaos for Control.
The walls were red and runny.
Annette and Cubby sing me songs, and I feel good.
I’m afraid to turn away again. Please leave the TV on.

- Aaron Eggers, Men’s Ministries

Stories from camp

Vinny Mikusow, our Teen Haven Camp Director recently shared these stories from recent weekends at camp:

A special reminder! Charles (14) - The bus pulled in Friday night and in comes running Charles. Huffing and puffing, he slams into me, hugs me and with a smile says, “This is my first time back since summer camp. Thank you for changing my life.”

We hugged and sat down at the nearest table and made clear as to the real person involved in his changed life. He smiled and said, “I know! But thanks anyway!”

Troubled but not beyond hope! Daniel (14) - Daniel was a first timer from Lancaster. Trouble from the start. Attention-getter during chapel and into everyone’s face throughout the day. Saturday night it was suggested by a staff member that we might need to consider taking Daniel home early. The Lord has His time.

One thing after another never allowed us to make that move. Sunday morning, during our morning breakfast prayer, I noticed Charles in a different light. As I got to his table, his supervisor said that Charles had something to say. We made eye contact and with a great smile he said, “I got saved last night.” There was a change! After chapel he walked along-side of me and we chatted as brothers. A different step, a different walk, a different person. A new creature!

Rejoice with us in the work God continues to do at Teen Haven Camp and through all of Water Street's ministries.

- Jack Crowley, Teen Haven

Words from a planter in Philly

Several months ago, Jamie Centeno left his role with us as Lancaster Teen Haven Director to prepare (along with his family) to return to Philadelphia as a pioneering pastor sent out by In The Light Ministries. They have now been in Philadelphia for a few months and are faithfully following God's call to serve and share the love of Christ in North Philadelphia.

As I looked back over his newsletters and updates today, I felt compelled to share one of his columns (I hope you don't mind Jamie). Please pray for Jamie, his family, and In The Light Ministries Philadelphia. Also, check out their website to see how God is working in their midst in Philadelphia... www.itlmphilly.org

Faith doesn’t feel good. That’s the revelation I have been shown by God. Most likely that is an elementary statement to you but bear with me.

Though God orders my steps I am not always walking on the smoothest terrain. I must admit sometimes it seems that the easier road would be the one everyone else travels. I see myself ‘rubbernecking’ at what I left behind. Comfort, security, the familiar and the list could go on.

I had great aspirations at what my act of obedience would produce. Somehow the circumstances blew the wind out of my sails. Where before it was so real that I could sink my teeth into it now the only thing my teeth have sunk into are my fingernails. The old school song comes to mind ‘feelings are nothing more than feelings’. The truth is my feelings are not the point and my life is not my own.

I am reminded of the covenant that was made between God and me. If I stay faithful on my end I can be confident because God has never failed me from His end. I need constant reassurance of this. That need has revealed to me how fragile my faith is. The Lord is looking to toughen my resolve. I am becoming more aware of this as the days move forward.

So even though faith doesn’t feel good if I will continue my resilience in trusting God then I can believe the end result will be worth the momentary discomfort.

Your Servant in Christ,
Pastor Jamie Centeno

Lessons after childbirth

My family is in the midst of transition – all caused by the birth of a baby. My wife, Jean, and I work out how to manage the care of a newborn while maintaining the nurturing care of the 5 other children in our household. My children also are transitioning as Mom and Dad tend to the needs of an infant who cannot take care of himself.

Because the children range in age from 1 week to 18 years they reflect varying maturity levels and need levels. My response to each of them is based upon their ability to understand the changes taking place as well as their ability to take care of themselves. The 18 month-old craves attention and has begun to cling to mommy more than before Justice’s birth. The older girls coo and care for Justice, helping with everything – complaining only at the changing of diapers (but don’t we all?). My 5 and 3 year-olds think He is neat – but want the space on Daddy’s lap that has always been reserved for them.

Wherever they are at, it’s my response to their needs, wants, cries, and joys that will help them in the maturation process from child to teen to adult.

As I was speaking in chapel this week I was reminded of how this same process takes place in the ministry of WSRM. Men, women and children come to us at varying levels of spiritual maturity. God has placed us in the position of walking alongside other men, women and children created in His image to help sharpen them and to use the unique gifts we have to help them in the maturation process. It is in my response to their needs, wants, cries, and joys that will help them in the maturation process from infant to adulthood – from milk to meat.

But it doesn’t stop there …

My kids help me mature in my faith as well. The simple faith of my children challenges me to see and grow in places and ways where my heart has become ragged and cynical. They help me to see love and experience love – and therefore to communicate love – in ways that the wisdom of the world considers foolishness.

The men, women and children at WSRM also help me mature in my faith as they begin to use their gifts and experience the joy of allowing the Holy Spirit to work in and through them. Watching them mature (as well as my own children) reminds me of God’s faithfulness to me.

I hope I never forget…

-Rick Rutter, Outreach Ministries

What am I thankful for?

What am I thankful for? Hmm…first and foremost God. Of course my family, friends, and oh yea my job!

What about my job am I thankful for? I could probably write the longest blog ever if I were to share EVERYTHING! For your sake I will focus on the relational part of my job.

I work in the Development Department and we develop relationships with donors and of course these relationships are very important to and valuable to me. I also value the relationships with the residents here at Water Street Rescue Mission. These relationships make me smile, they make me sad, they make me angry, they make me cry, they make me laugh but most importantly they let me see the work of God.

Here is an example:

I got to meet a resident by the name of Richard. Richard helped us out during one of our events. One day, I saw Richard in the dining hall; he was not his usual chipper self. I looked at him and asked him if he was struggling he said “yea, how did you know?” and I responded “No need to say anymore I will pray for you.”

About 3 days later I was getting out of my car headed into work for the day and I heard a voice calling around the parking lot “Ms. Evelyn, Ms. Evelyn! Do you have a minute?” He then proceeded to tell me that he has an eleven month old son, who will be turning 1 in about 2 weeks and that he will be visiting him for his birthday, he hasn’t seen his son in 6 months. He also shared that the main reason he is here at Water Street Rescue Mission is because he wanted to be a better father to his son, a father his son can be proud of. We concluded our conversation with me promising to pray for his visit.

I headed to my office and the minute I stepped into my office something hit me. Does this man have a gift to take to his only son for his first birthday? The man does live in a shelter, he is basically homeless. I went and spoke with Steve Brubaker who is Director of Residential Programs. I knew we had a “gift closet” for the children somewhere here. He directed me to the right department and I was able to pick out several birthday gifts for a 1 year old boy.

Several days later I asked Richard to meet me at my office and shared with him that God has blessed him with gifts for his son. Words can not express the look on this man’s face. He was actually speechless. I saw this grown man tear up. I saw this man witness God’s love. How blessed am I to be part of this? How awesome is that?

How many of you can say that about your job?

Thank you Jesus for giving me a place that is more than just a JOB! Thank you for the relationships I have with my family, friends, co-workers, donors, residents and most importantly YOU!

-Evelyn Rankin, Development Department

Teach me to be thankful

It is so easy get lost in all the details. Thanksgiving is just two days away, and instead of feeling truly grateful for the hope that I have in Jesus and all that He has blessed me with, I find myself complaining.

The Great Thanksgiving Banquet is tomorrow night. It is an awesome time to show Christ’s love to the community through offering a meal and fellowship, but what is consuming my mind today is not thankfulness for this opportunity but a panicked bitterness that I am not getting any thing done! “Too many phone calls”, “too many details”, “not enough time” seem to be never far from my tongue.

Help me, Father, to be truly grateful. Grant me Your perspective on the details. Help me to give time and priority to people and relationships, as You did while here on earth.

Teach me to be thankful.

-Carissa Martin, Volunteer Coordinator

Too small to ignore

Last spring a book came across my desk, sent to me by the head office of early childhood education of ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International). The book was Too Small to Ignore, by Wess Stafford, president and CEO of Compassion International. The book looked interesting and I stuck in my briefcase to take home and read. Unfortunately, my husband got to it before I did and began reading it. Before I knew what was happening, he was telling everyone about the book, suggesting that anyone who has children, works with children, or even knows children should read this book. He even began to offer my book to others to borrow and read and I hadn’t even read it yet! With that I decided that I better get busy and read the book and you know, I have to agree with him – it is a book that everyone who knows children and works with them should read.

The premise of Dr. Stafford’s book is simple: “Children are too important and too intensely loved by God to be left to chance. Children belong to all of us and we are compelled to intervene on their behalf. We must invest in children – all across the world.” Many times we think of children as the “least of these” but remember Jesus said that unless we become like little children, we cannot enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:4-5).

Interspersed with the author’s own experiences growing up in a West African village as the son of missionaries are challenges to consider the plight of our children today, not only in our western culture but around the world. His own childhood in Africa taught him that it does indeed take a village to raise a child. Childhood in non-western societies like the one in which he was raised is “a constant, gentle flow that moves from infant to toddler to child to youth and on to adulthood in a steady integrated progression. In each phase of childhood, the child is allowed to be as much a part of the ebb and flow of daily life as his or her capabilities allow.” By contrast we (in Western culture) have “forgotten that there really is no higher calling than to raise a child. We tend to do a lot for our children but not nearly enough with our children.”

So how do we begin to change our unhealthy views of children to more positive ones? How do we discover and nurture their dreams in our fast-paced society? It requires deliberate effort on our part. Dr. Stafford suggests three ways: (1) Go to them. Enter their world; (2) Bring them into your world; and (3) Merge the two worlds. In his book he endeavors to elaborate and enlighten the reader on just how to do those things. He gives persuasive and logical reasons, beyond love and kindness, to invest in our children both here and across the world. He reminds us that one day we will be the ones yearning for time with them in their busy schedules as they occupy the seats of power in the world. He reminds us that “it cannot wait until tomorrow. Today is the moment to shape children’s spirits, character, and values, to help them build castles in the clouds.” Dr. Stafford will encourage you to turn good intentions into strategies for changing the world – one child at a time!

-Lorraine Brandt, Wonder Club School

The ambulance down in the valley

‘Twas A dangerous cliff, as they freely confessed, Though to walk near its crest was so pleasant;
But over its terrible edge there had slipped a Duke and full many a peasant.
The people said something would have to be done, but their projects did not at all tally.
Some said, “Put a fence ‘round the edge of the cliff,” Some, “An ambulance down in the valley.”

The lament of the crowd was profound and was loud, as their hearts overflowed with their pity;
But the cry for the ambulance carried the day as it spread through the neighboring city
A collection was made, to accumulate aid, and the dwellers in highway and alley
Gave dollars or cents – not to furnish a fence – but an ambulance down in the valley.

“For the cliff is all right if you’re careful,” they said; “And if folks ever slip and are dropping.
It isn’t the slipping that hurts them so much as the shock down below – when they’re stopping.”
So for years (we have heard), as these mishaps occurred, quick forth would the rescuers sally,
To pick up the victims who fell from the cliff, with the ambulance down in the valley.

Said one to his peers, “It’s a marvel to me that you’d give so much greater attention
To repairing results than to curing the cause; you had much better aim at prevention.
For the mischief, of course, should be stopped at its source Come, neighbors and friends, let us rally.
It is far better sense to rely on a fence than an ambulance down in the valley.”

“He is wrong in his head,” the majority said; “He would end all our earnest endeavor.
He’s a man who would shirk his responsible work, but we will support it forever.
Aren’t we picking up all, just as fast as they fall, and giving them care liberally?
A superfluous fence is of no consequence, if the ambulance works in the valley.

The story looks queer as we’ve written it here, But things oft occur that are stranger;
More humane, we assert, than to succor the hurt is the plan of removing the danger,
The best possible course is to safeguard the source; attend to things rationally.
Yes, build up the fence and let us dispense with the ambulance down in the valley.
(Author unknown)

Are we at Water Street Rescue Mission the fence or the ambulance? I believe we’re both. We want to help those who’ve fallen over the edge by showing them the fence which is God’s plan of salvation through His son Jesus, and the healing grace that keeps us all from falling again and needing that ambulance.

Vicki Bollman, Women’s Ministry

"She sees me when I can't see myself"

When I worked at the rescue mission in Jacksonville my boss met with city officials before the Super Bowl came to town. The city had a keen interest in knowing what was going to ‘happen to the homeless’ when the Super Bowlers visited Jax. And they were very nervous that the ‘unhidden’ homeless in our midst might disturb the partygoers from out of town. They like many in our communities believed it best that the homeless and troubled were out of view – and out of public awareness.

I am encouraged to know that God sees us and loves us when we are ‘out of sight.’ Way before any of us came to know Jesus personally, God already knew us, cared about us, and was beckoning us to come meet Him. Amazing isn’t it?

And I am often encouraged here at the Mission as I witness my fellow staff members in how they ‘notice’ the residents. In the Mission, on most every day of the year, at almost anytime of the day there is someone being fed, being spoken with, being ministered to. The staff and volunteers bring dignity and respect to each of these residents, all who have been ‘in the shadows of life for so long.’ And in so doing, the staff dramatically models the reality that God sees us when ‘we are afar off.’

One of our older, African – American residents was speaking passionately to me about her relationship with Cheryl, one of our young counselors. Of Cheryl she said this, “Cheryl sees me when I can’t see myself!” I was humbled when I heard this and reminded of the sacred privilege we have – that of coming along side someone who is broken and hurting. Our very caring Father has used Cheryl’s eyes of compassion, her thoughtful words, her loving silence, her embracing acceptance, and her authentic and vulnerable relationship with this once hidden older woman to reveal that He sees her and has not ‘passed her by.’ May you be encouraged today Cheryl, to persist in loving those around you in such an open and defenseless way! Jesus loves you, girlfriend, in word and deed!

-Steve Brubaker, Residential Ministries

Cold Stone Funraiser

Hear Ye, Hear Ye! Get your “Cold Stone Creamery” ice cream cake or pie! Starting November 13th to January 31st, buy an ice cream cake or pie and support the Water Street Clinics! Get your voucher today!

I had never even tried their ice cream until this week, and now I’m hawking for them?

Jamie Bolen-Pollock, local owner of a Cold Stone Creamery, came up to me at the Business Expo last week and offered to do a fund raiser for the Water Street Clinics. I found this interesting, since God had laid on my heart a few days earlier when I heard the Cold Stone advertisement for fundraising, that I should contact them. I guess He decided to bring them to me! I responded to her offer…”You have got to be kidding!” She was confused, what had she said that elicited this response from me? I then told her that God sent her to me and I was amazed! She also is a believer and got a big smile on her face & said that God is like that & in fact shared how he had nudged her to respond just that morning to act on another issue in her life.

Lord, you have placed on the hearts of those leading the Water Street Clinics to build a new & bigger clinic to serve more uninsured people in need of medical & dental care. This is crazy! We have no money Lord! How are we going to run a new clinic with double the expense, when we are barely able to cover this years cost? I’m going to have a panic attack Lord! Why have you sent us down this path with what appears to be no solid funding support? I know you have promised to be with us. We have talked with you about this project for a long time and we have seen how you have provided for us, in fact all of the furniture has been donated to furnish the 6 new exam rooms. The 4 dental operatories are being built as I pray, and people are coming forward to donate furnishings and funds to complete the construction! That is pretty amazing! You have also brought so many new volunteers Lord this year…but we need more. I know you know that! I guess it comes down to trust. Trusting You Lord to provide whatever is needed for Your ministry. I recall you reminding me Lord that this clinic is Yours! I am Your servant Lord! You placed this word in my heart this week,

“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” Proverbs 16:9 and from Proverbs 3, “Trust the Lord with all your heart & lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.”

I admit Lord; I really don’t understand how we are going to pay for the expenses of the new clinic. What I do know is that YOU do!

- Gale Thomason, Executive Director, Water Street Clinics

Hope for what?

Recently a man sat across my desk asking for our program. He had only one eye and very few teeth. He dropped out of high school and is too frail to work as a laborer. He was not disabled and too young for retirement. It was hard for him to participate in the conversation; his mind was poor at thinking.

As we talked I caught myself feeling hopeless about him. This happens to me quite a bit in this ministry. I felt myself getting pulled into his painful circumstance and losing perspective.

The starkness of these frequent realities forces me to revisit what we offer here. Many times, in these interviews, I make reference to a ‘better life’. I use that as a carrot to motivate the person to engage in life change. The common version of a ‘better life’ seemed beyond hope for this man.

What could he hope for in this life?
Is eternity all he could hope for?
Is that all we could help him with?
What difference could Jesus make in this man’s life right now?

We will not likely resolve all the limitations this man has, though we will work hard to do so. If he is willing, however, we may be able to show him how to find a joy that goes beyond circumstances; a joy that will make the rest of his life a higher quality even though his situation may not remarkably improve.

- Aaron Eggers, Men’s Ministries

Thanks Don!

I am completely amazed at the commitment of some of our volunteers. I had the privilege of meeting Don Wolgemuth today. Don “volunteers” for Teen Haven. I say “volunteers” with quotation marks because in reality it’s more like he works for Teen Haven.

Don works at least four days a week cutting, splitting and delivering wood. Some of this wood is taken to Teen Haven camp for them to use to heat staff houses or for camp fires. Very important, for as Don said, “A lot of big decisions for Christ are made around the camp fire!”

Most of the wood, however, Don sells. You might think that he’s becoming a rich man, but he’s not. When he delivers the wood, he has the buyer make the check out to Teen Haven. In his years of doing this, he has raised over $81,000 for Teen Haven.

That’s a lot of money, but what impresses me most is why he is doing this. The reason is simple—he loves God. He recognizes the importance of reaching youth for Christ. So he serves “behind the scenes”, providing essential resources for the ministry.

Thank you, Don.

- Carissa Martin, Volunteer Coordinator

The beautiful Schuylkill Expressway?

Yesterday, I drove in to Philly for a meeting with some of our Teen Haven staff and to conduct an interview. While driving along the Schuylkill Expressway around 10am, I had a revelation. The Schuylkill Expressway is a beautiful stretch of road.

Now for those of you from the Philly area, let me assure you I was indeed awake, and not under the influence of any substances legal or otherwise (I did have a cup of half-caf coffee on the drive). Usually one wouldn't associate the word beautiful with this stretch of road, more often one might think "treacherous", "nightmare", "maddening", "scary", "unpredictable" - you may even be familiar with it's nickname, "The Sure-Kill Expressway."

But yesterday, while driving the 12 mile stretch from Rte 202 to Roosevelt Blvd, I could not help but be struck by the sheer beauty of the road I was driving on. The amazing colors of the trees surrounding the road, the sections of hillside that the highway is cut into, the short stretch that overlooks the river as you approach the city. God and man have cooperated to produce a pretty amazing stretch of road - especially in late Oct/early Nov.

Now don't get me wrong, I have driven along the Pacific Coast Highway between San Fran and LA, and I'm not comparing the Schuylkill to that most amazing stretch of road in the world (If I get the chance to visit it again, I might not ever come back).

I guess my point (if I need to have one) is this. God's beauty can shine through in even the most unsuspecting and seemingly God-forsaken places (hmmm... and lives?).

-Jack Crowley, Teen Haven

The Lord Knows What is Right for Me…

My children were finally raised & out of the house. I had a little extra time to do things that I wanted to do. The Lord was playing on my heart for awhile to give something back to the community when I received a flyer in the mail from the WS Clinic saying they needed RN volunteers in the medical clinic. I filled out the application and mailed it in. I got a call from Gale Thomason and made an appointment to meet with her. I thought to myself, I have been a baby nurse most of my career, working in Neonatal Intensive Care. I was thinking, do I really remember what to do with an adult patient anymore, but the Lord kept calling me to do this.

I arrived the first day to volunteer and was gladly impressed with what came back to me; adults really didn’t change very much. Blood pressures, vital signs, medications – they all came back to me. I knew the Lord wanted me to do this and He was right by my side all the way.

I really enjoy my time at the clinic. I have met many new people from all walks of life. Doctors, nurses and of course the patients. Most are very committed to changing their lives and committed to the Lord.

I really appreciate the opportunity to work here in the medical clinic. The Lord knows what is right for me.

- Lynn Balmer, RN, Water Street Medical Clinic

Thanks Bill

This week was the Teen Haven Fall Banquet (maybe I should have advertised that on here, hmmm...).

As a part of the evening, I prepared a short video tribute to Bill Drury. Rev. Drury started Teen Haven in Philadelphia back in 1963, and was the director until the mid-90's when his health prevented him from carrying the load anymore. Bill went home to be with the Lord last December, and this was the first banquet since his death.

I didn't know Bill very well, and only got to speak with him a couple of times, but in stewarding the ministry that he started, I have come to appreciate his passion to serve Christ and love inner-city kids. Much about Teen Haven has changed through the years, but the heartbeat that Christ put within Bill for sharing the love of God with urban youth is still the mark of this ministry.

While putting together the video tribute, I listened to the voice (and heart) of Bill over and over again. My favorite quote from the video was when Bill was responding to a question about how inner-city kids responded to him approaching them on the street to talk about Teen Haven or Jesus:

"They would often say to me 'Man, who cares?'
And I would say 'Hey man, I care... I'm here... I care baby'"

As much as Teen Haven has always emphasized sharing the Gospel, Bill knew that our physical presence was crucial to being able to share the love of God in a meaningful way. Our words (whether about how much we care or how much God cares) don't mean nearly as much without our consistent presence.

Thank you God for Bill and for Teen Haven.

-Jack Crowley, Teen Haven

The girl on the plane, the guy at the airport, the guy at the station, and the guy on the train

Jere and I had an interesting trip as we returned to Lancaster after a week of meetings in Chicago with other mission staff from around the country. The trip seemed most significant by who we encountered rather than the mechanics of the travel itself. Here’s how it went:

First we sat next to a young girl, age 27, who worked as a mechanical engineer in Jersey. She was enthusiastic, newly married, excited about life but hadn’t yet found a significant reason for getting up each morning. While on the plane, I told her of how God miraculously recovered one of my daughters’ lost dolls when we traveled from BWI one year. She was intrigued by that and later reminded us of the story as we waited to see if our luggage was lost in baggage claim. We spoke with her from our heart and life and gave her our cards inviting her to visit the Mission should she travel our way.

Next as we sat waiting for the SEPTA train from the airport a homeless guy came to us asking for a quarter. (We were the only travelers who returned eye contact with him – so we naively - some would say - invited his request!) We sat with him while he ate food from the garbage can. We asked him about his past, his family, his health, and whether he was staying warm or not. We enjoyed bantering with him and gave him the name of a friend who works with the homeless in Philadelphia.

Then while sitting in 30th Street Station a man came up and reminded us that he had met us before. He had been a resident at the Lancaster Mission many years ago and remembered us; he also asked about Chaplain Menno and Chaplain Stan and the rest of the staff here. We told him we would pray for him and encouraged him to keep walking with Jesus in all he does.

And finally, we were able to sit on the Amtrak train to Lancaster with a fellow Christian as he returned from a week away from his family. We spoke at length about his journey from nominal faith to deeper trust. And we were able to encourage him – and he us.

Four encounters, four very different people. Yet Jere and I were happy and wondering whether these encounters reflected God’s real intention for our ‘important’ meeting in Chicago. Could it be, even as we clung to our agenda and calendars, that what we valued as important – like maybe the meeting in Chicago - was not as nearly consuming to our Lord as people?

Imagine going through a day without concern for making dollars, paying bills, or following an agenda but for ministering as others are led to come alongside! Imagine being consumed, not with tasks and priorities and schedules, but people!

- Steve Brubaker, Residential Ministries

I have to change my view...

Pursuant to a recent discussion on valuing accountability with one of our men, Sue Pearce (co-worker and Learning Center Instructor) sent the following response:

“I have to change my view on how we can love a person and hate the sin, and on how to offer grace to someone. I was torn between wanting to rescue this man once again and shouting at him to open his eyes and see the truth about himself and others. I am not experienced at seeing beneath the surface and I realize I am going to have to learn a lot. It scares me to be in a position where I would have to make decisions that can send the person back to the "pig-sty" until he is broken. I don't like being in that position... I feel out of my depth. However, I understand why this has to be.”

It is heart-warming to be on the same page with our co-workers, especially when they genuinely “get it”. My general way has been to voraciously research something; meticulously setting all my ducks in neat little rows; charting all possible options; marching forward like a mighty Army. Sue simply said, “I have to change my view…” then asked me to walk it out with her. This is the very essence of accountability.

Accountability is surely not for the faint of heart. Scripture often touches on the value of this characteristic in one who would be the “Noble Warrior” (the one who will, in love, not shrink back from Truth). It is often in the “pig-sty” where we come to our senses (like the prodigal). It is only in Love that our God inflicts the pain of discipline on us. The Noble one will not hold back due consequences, no matter the pain—for to do so is unloving. We hurt because we do not “see” the solution; He hurts because He does see it—His precious Son, on a cruel Cross and in a cruel Hell; paying for our Sin.

Blessings…

- Norm Lowry, Learning Center Coordinator

Trust

Just looking at the “Purpose Driven Life” this morning and thinking a bit about trust. Rick Warren talks about Noah in Chapter 9 – how Noah pleased God because of his faithfulness. Wow! Noah was asked to build the Queen Mary in the middle of the desert and then to fill it with animals – and he did it without complaining.

Imagine any of us being asked to do such a thing. What questions would we have of God? Where am I going to get the supplies or the $$$ to buy them, and how will I ever round up all those animals? Who’s going to help build this thing? And, won’t I look stupid if it doesn’t rain? And, I suppose You want me to quit my job so I can do this? Then, how will I get the $$$ to buy those animals? God, do you know how much a parrot costs? Besides, I’m too old to start such a project – and God, You know how bad my back is! Isn’t there someone else?

Essentially, our question would be, “Can I really trust you to provide all that is needed for so great a task?”

But Noah did according to all that the LORD commanded him. AND – Noah was 600 years old when the floodwaters were on the earth (Genesis 7:5-6).

Lord God, You’ve never asked me to build an ark, a row boat, or even a raft. You’ve never asked me to gather animals from all over the earth. In fact, you haven’t asked me to do anything that you haven’t equipped me to do. You’ve put me in a place where I can share you every day with hurting women and you provide all that I need to do that. Thank you for the privilege of being your child and doing your will. Help me to daily - joyfully - give my life to You for whatever You ask. I trust you, Father.

Lord, I offer my life to You – everything I’ve been through.
Use it for Your glory -
Lord, I offer my days to You – all of my praise to You.
As a living sacrifice –
Lord, I offer You my life.

- Vicki Bollman, Women’s Counselor

God's abundance

“God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory”

We here at the Water Street Rescue Mission Foodservice Department get to see much of the first hand provision of God almost every week. So much so that it is easy to take for granted and not give him the glory he deserves. Ninety percent of the food that we use to serve the 400-450 meals per day to men, women and children is donated. That food comes from local businesses, organizations, and many individuals. Some of those are weekly donations, but also there are those that just give one time. Every donation we consider a gift from God.

Often we are surprised by God’s timing of donations. Last week we marveled at a couple of such instances. On Friday morning, I told one of the gentlemen that is in the program here that it would be nice to get some bananas in so we could make some banana bread. Three hours later in came 3 cases of bananas.

Also the chef (George Eckman) and I were discussing how we could make our large abundance of potato salad available to people in need in our community. Our concerns were with the size of packaging and sanitation of the product. Well, with the same shipment of bananas, we received 28 cases of small one pound packages of potato salad. EXACTLY WHAT WE WERE TALKING ABOUT.

There have been so many instances like this here in the time I have been here that it would take pages to describe all of them. We are so blessed in this area and we believe that the more we give, the more God will supply.

“For when you did awesome things that we did not expect, you came down, and the mountains trembled before you.” Isaiah 64:3

Thank you and remember He Loves you.

- Steve Hackman, Food Service Manager

Changes

It’s been a busy start to the school year. Many transitions: new families, new children, new staff. But in spite of the busyness, this is one of my favorite times of the year. Brilliant yellows, golds, reds, oranges, and browns abound as the leaves shed their summer colors for autumn’s beauty. The crispness in the early morning air reminds us that summer is rapidly fleeting and the winter chills will soon be upon us. The smell of wood smoke in the air and the aroma of apple, pumpkin, cinnamon and ginger will forever linger in my mind as “fall” fragrances. All these things remind me of God’s faithfulness. Because He is faithful, I expect these changes to take place each fall. Just as assuredly I know that after the long, cold winter, spring will arrive bursting with new life and the promise of these cycles repeating themselves.

Just as the seasons change, so do the people that surround us. And no where, it seems, is that more evident than in the lives of young children. As parents we witness the physical growth that takes place ever so dramatically when we put away the shorts and bring out the long pants. Invariably, the pants that were still a little long in the spring are suddenly inches too short!

As early childhood educators, it is even more exciting to see other kinds of changes and growth taking place in the preschoolers we see each day. The child who started with us the first of September, not even recognizing his own name, now not only recognizes his name but also knows all the letters in his name! Two kids happily sharing the blocks in the block corner, the children choosing to “read” the children’s Bible during free choice reading; the child who no longer cries when mommy leaves her at the door and the kindergartener putting letters together to sound out words are all signs of growth and change.

God has a plan for nature and the seasons and God has a plan for each individual. Sometimes the plan involves change that is simple and barely noticeable, but at other times the changes are lengthy and painful. Through the changes in our lives, it is helpful to remember that God is in control of our lives just as He is in control of the changing seasons. He is faithful and will see us through any change!

-Lorraine Brandt, Wonder Club School

Simple words of life

I had a hard week last week. I wasn’t sure why though. All I could see from my vantage point was a gruffness coming out with increasing frequency and a scrunching tightness in my forehead. I was beginning to be more concerned for tasks than hearts and survival than service.

On Wednesday of last week, I had my weekly meeting with my boss (such an ugly word that hardly conveys any sense of my love and respect for Steve). In that meeting he picked up quickly that something was draining my spirit. After a few minutes of needed business He called the meeting off and, sort of, sent me home at 2:00 in the afternoon.

I gladly went home, dropped into bed and fell fast asleep for the next two hours. Though it was a deep and needed rest I awoke feeling anxious. I went to bed early that night and slept poorly. When morning came, the first thought I recall was about the possibility of rearranging my responsibilities so I could take the day off. I didn’t do it, but I wanted to.

My first meeting of the day was at 8:00 A.M. and was one I usually look forward to, with a person who seems eager to grow right now. As we began to engage in weighty matters my heart seemed distant and unsettled. Something still wasn’t right.

At about 8:30, half-way through my meeting, Steve (the boss) called over the intercom, “Hey Mr. Aaron,” I responded, “Hey Steve!” He asked, “I wonder if I could pop over quickly?” I could feel my spirit brighten at his request. “Sure!” I said, “Come on over.”

Steve arrived and my appointment left. As Steve and I sat looking at each other he asked, “How are you doing?” I don’t recall what I said, but it informed him that I was still not 100%.

As Steve went fishing in my soul, we eventually came to a point where I was trying to share with him some admiration I had felt toward him a few days before. –It had taken place in another meeting where I had invited those present to imagine what it must have been like being one of the Amish girls, lined up against the chalkboard as the gunman came down the line shooting. Even before I was finished speaking, I saw Steve’s face grimace and his eyes fill with water. I was drawn to him because of his tender display— that’s what I was trying to remind him of this morning.

I didn’t get very far in recounting the experience when my own imagination saw the girls; something exploded inside of me and suddenly it came gushing out. For the next few minutes I felt a swirl of refreshing embarrassing relief and clarity as I cried.

Steve saw that things were not ‘ok’ in me. He pursued me and spoke life into me by asking –simply, “How are you doing?”

Aaron Eggers, Men’s Ministries

Coincidences?

God never ceases to amaze me.

The other week I received a phone call from a friend of the Mission who shared that they felt as if God was asking them to donate their apartment building to the Rescue Mission. Would we have a use for it? They suggested that perhaps we could use it as transitional housing for men who are leaving the Mission, but need a place to stay that still offered a measure of support and accountability. They even offered that if we didn’t have a use for the house, we could sell it and use the proceeds.

I was blessed by their generosity…but I was even more blessed by their sense of confidence that they had heard the Holy Spirit and were responding. As I discussed this gift with our Leadership Team I discovered that the director of our Men’s Ministry had been praying for several months that God would provide a transitional house for the men graduating from our Christian Life Development Program. A coincidence? I think not!!!! What an amazing God we serve! I am so blessed by both God’s activity in answering prayer….and by a friend who knew how to listen to God and respond to meet this important need.

Wait…the story continues. A few months ago the director of another ministry that runs a transitional house for men coming out of prison had told me in passing that he believed God was preparing them to expand their ministry. They do a great job helping the men in their transition house…and I don’t like to recreate something that somebody else can do better…..so I called them up and inquired – would they be interested in partnering with us to run a transition house for men coming out of homelessness? Amazingly enough, just two day’s earlier they had completed some changes in their ministry and decided that now they were ready should God bring them opportunities to expand. Coincidence? I think not!!!! What an amazing God we serve!

We don’t know what it will look like yet, but with all that God has done so far…I am expecting that God will give us the practical wisdom needed to form a partnership that will provide transitional housing to many men in the years ahead.

- Jere Shertzer, President WSRM

Meet Hal

Name: Hal Skloff

When did you start volunteering? About 3 years ago. My wife, Esse, also started volunteering at the same time. She does a lot of the paper work for the Food Services Department.

How often do you volunteer? At least once a week. Once in a while I come in twice a week.

What are your volunteer responsibilities? I am a retired pharmacist. I am able to use those skills that I had in my career to be of service here in the clinic. I sort and catalog the donated medications that the clinic receives.

What led you to volunteer at WSRM? I wanted to help people. I also wanted to work in a “worth-while” organization. Working at the Water Street Rescue Mission Clinic gave me that opportunity.

Have you ever volunteered before (at other places)? Yes! I actually still volunteer at the Health Campus. I work in the humor library there. I wear a crazy hat and take a cart of books around to people’s rooms, hoping to get them to laugh and to get their minds off their troubles. It is also a very rewarding experience.

What has been your favorite experience volunteering at WSRM? Why do you keep coming back? I like the people that I work with—we have a lot of fun together. I also enjoy being able to continue to use my pharmacist skills. And it is very rewarding to see people being helped—and being a part of it.

What have you learned? Since I’ve been here I’ve learned that there is a very real need for the Mission and for the clinic. I’ve also learned just how much volunteers are needed!

What would you say to others who may want to volunteer? If you are looking for a very fulfilling experience, this is a great place to be! I would encourage anyone and everyone to come try it out!

I remember Rampy

Recently I read an article in the Sunday News about Marta Estrata and her book "To the Mafia With Love". She is a native of South America who was touched by the power of God. Now, as the Director of the Lancaster branch of New Life for Girls, she helps young women break free from the bondage of sin through the power of Jesus Christ. She is often seen in the halls of Water Street Rescue Mission.

That stirred my memory banks to when I was a teenager, living in Philadelphia. Our church would go down to a center city mission once a month and provide special music and a message for an evening service. Even though I did not see any obvious fruit at that time, I was very aware that miracles do happen.

Through my church, I was acquainted with a man named Bob Rampy. I learned that he was saved in a mission and his life was so transformed that he eventually became the head of the Water Street Rescue Mission here in Lancaster. God ultimately called him to the mission field, with his wife Marcella, in South America.

Could there be any correlation between Bob and Marta's stories? I don't know, but I do know that God is still in the business of changing lives!!!

-Arlene Snyder, volunteer RN in the Medical Clinic

The dehydrated heart

Our bodies, according to some estimates, consist of 80% fluid. We’re supposed to drink, what, 8 glasses of water of day? How many of us do that? I know I don’t. When we stop drinking liquids, wholesome liquids, but especially water, our bodies become parched. Skin becomes clammy, vital organs shrink.

Does not our soul need spiritual water too? Just as our body can become parched, so our soul can lack nourishment too. Deprive our soul of spiritual water and it will tell us. Dehydrated hearts send desperate messages – waves of worry, short tempers, moodiness, thoughts of insecurity, sleeplessness and other maladies of the mind, body and soul. These are warning signs. Symptoms of a dryness deep within – proof that something within us is starting to shrivel.

Where do we go to find water for our soul? Jesus tells us “If anyone thirsts, let him come to ME and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water” (John 7:37-38NKJV)

Like water, Jesus goes where we can’t.

- Thoughts from Max Lucado’s book, “Come Thirsty” as paraphrased by Pam Nelson, Development Department

Remembering John Porter

In almost seven years working at the Mission with men from different kinds of backgrounds and experiences, I have had the privilege of ministering to many unique individuals. But invariably, every time the Lord reminds me of why I am in this ministry, He does so by reminding me of John.

John Porter was the very first client I ever had. I only had the privilege of knowing John for three days. You see, John was very sick and dying of AIDS. He was a very young man, only 30 years of age, and yet his prospects for the future were very bleak.

My first conversation with John revealed a man who was very much afraid of death. John shared that fear with me many times in his short stay.

On the second day that John was at the Mission, I had the opportunity to share the love of Christ with him. Through the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, John found forgiveness and hope in Christ. I will never forget what John said to me the last day before he left the Mission, as we sat in my pickup truck. He said to me, with tears of joy in his eyes, that for the first time in his life, he was not afraid to die.

So, you see, the Lord often reminds me of John when I need to be reminded of why he has called me to the Mission. Thank you, John. I will never forget you, and I look forward to seeing you in glory.

-Dan Scheuerlein, Men's Ministry

Come as a child, pt 1.

On Thursday our Men’s Director, Aaron and the chaplain’s board participated in a question and answer time with the residential men. It was truly a ‘red-letter’ day in the life of our mission. As Donna our long time residential ministries’ secretary said, “this was probably the most exciting thing I’ve ever witnessed here.”

And what was so thrilling about a Q&A time with the chaps? Well, the men were encouraged to ask the chaps anything! And they did! The questions were pointed and specific. For example, the first question for all to answer was this: “What is your biggest weakness in your role at the mission and what is your most troublesome personal sin?”

Imagine the paradox in this meeting! Historically, we have always related to the men from a position of superiority, from expert (chaplain) to novice (resident) so this ‘open-ended’ Q&A time was threatening as it encouraged vulnerability in front of ‘messed up’ residents. We expect the residents to be open and exposed and ‘weakness-revealing’ yet we work hard to not show any of our faults to them! And we believe they must be forthcoming because their private issues are what brought them to our doors! And yet if we don’t acknowledge our weaknesses how can we expect to connect to the residents? And if we don’t connect with them how can we effectively share the gospel? So this meeting was truly profound in what it revealed – that we can – and must - minister from a position of ‘not-having-it-all-together.’

Ministry from weakness is messy and demands that we come alongside a resident and come out from ‘behind our desks and titles!’ Ministry from weakness demands that we relate to the residents as peers. Ministry from weakness means that we are sure of our calling, our frailty, and our goal to effectively share the gospel. And ministry from weakness reveals Jesus as we ‘get out of the way’ so He can do His work through us! It was a ‘red-letter’ day indeed! Press on Aaron.

-Steve Brubaker, Men's Ministry

Thank you United Way and DofC volunteers!

If you would have happened to drive by the Mission on Saturday September 9th, you would have seen that we were completely overrun with green shirts. On that Saturday we participated with Lancaster United Way for the Lancaster Day of Caring. About 80 volunteers came to Water Street Rescue Mission, wearing their green shirts, ready to work.

We had volunteers from Pfizer, Harrisburg Area Community College, PPL, The Heart Group, Millersville University and Apostles United Church of Christ. These volunteers worked from 8:30am – 12noon doing various projects around the Mission. The Chapel, the Dental Clinic, the Medical Clinic and the Men’s Emergency Shelter all got a good cleaning! At the Lancaster Teen Haven Youth Center volunteers did some grounds maintenance and caught a snake! There was a group who sorted donations in our Redistribution Department. And there was also a group of volunteers who cleaned up trash on the grounds of the Mission.

We are so blessed to be a part of such a caring community. Thank you United Way for organizing this day! And a big thank you to all the volunteers who gave up their Saturday morning to serve at the Mission! We truly were blessed by your efforts!

-Carissa Martin, Volunteer Coordinator

Sharing in the gospel

A Bible I use is The Net Bible (New English Translation). Reading Philippians today I was reminded of two things. Philippians 1:5 says, “because of your participation in the gospel from the first day until now.” Verse seven puts it a different way, “all of you became partners in God’s grace together with me.” Later, 27 says, “conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.”

To contribute financially to a minister is sharing in the gospel. Another way to say sharing in the gospel is partnering with the minister in God’s grace. In other words, those who financially contribute to ministers financially join with them as if they were on the field with them. A person can share in ministry without being a minister; he shares in the gospel by contributing to those preaching it.

Paul rejoiced in prison because, “my situation has actually turned out to advance the gospel”. Paul was so motivated by the gospel that hardship which advanced the gospel was favorable. That is such a contrast to those who resist hardship. Imagine determining life or death on the basis of presenting the gospel.

Reading Philippians today I was reminded why we are here at Water Street Rescue Mission: to share the gospel. It can be easy to be distracted by other issues and focuses. An almost shocking thought is found in the context of sharing in the gospel financially—“the one who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus” (v. 6). Giving the gospel is not a work performed by man; God enables us to give the gospel. When we do good, it is God Who works in us this good work which we do. We are not just helping God out by helping ministers, but God is helping us to help others to share about His Son.

Two ideas I take from this is the purpose in ministry which should allow me to endure with joy is the gospel, and the one who performs good works is not just I, but God using me.

-Michael Haines, Men's Ministry

Dependence or defiance?

Some time ago our ministry was discussing how dependence on God is manifested in our lives. The most common way we evaluate our dependence on God is by assessing our prayer life. However, if that is the only benchmark it can result in a shallow spiritualization of our relationship with God. Another benchmark of our dependence on God can be how we view daily activities.

Each activity that is a normal part of daily life is an opportunity for one to stand in defiance or kneel before God. It is not the activity itself which contains great value, but the posture of the inner man. In all activities, the inner man maintains a posture of humility or pride. Small insignificant activities can take on new meaning when we realize that they contain loud shouts of worship (or rebellion) toward God. It is in these small things that the true posture of one's heart is nurtured.

-Jere Shertzer, President, WSRM

They need our hearts to love them ...

“Many people mistake our work for our vocation. Our vocation is the love of Jesus” –Mother Teresa

We serve the seemingly hopeless; those who feel the weight of being “unwanted, unloved, uncared for, and forgotten”; a state which one of my heroes calls “…a much greater hunger, a much greater poverty than the person who has nothing to eat”. By days end, we are often spent; our perspective all but gone. Our beds, which promise respite, are often a place of tossing & turning & tears. But then, the One who loves our hearts comes to us. The next thing we know, we are recharged and rising to face a new day…

Each new day promises its assortment of joy and sorrow. Today began with a co-worker (Glen) coming in to share his Joy over one of his “guys” (Dennis) who invited our precious Jesus to create a new heart in him. After Glen left, I cried, remembering the many days of watching this friend love his guys without even a hint of heart-softening. Soon, Dennis came to class beaming, desiring to tell all of us of his newly found Love.

Our morning session was led by our new Lydia Center Learning Center Coordinator (Carrie) and Volunteer Tutor (Bruce), while my Ministry Partner (Sue) and I entered into a new experience of individualized Student progress assessments. Today’s assessments focused on two of our current Students (Lane & Richard), who are nearing program completion and will soon begin their Transition back into society. It was a beneficial time of discussing their progress, strengths, weaknesses, and plans for the future. The lunch hour was filled with quality Client (Orrin, Harry, and Jonathan) interactions and in a time of prayer for our Executive Secretary (Lisa) and for a member of our Community (Loren). During our afternoon session, Sue and Carrie worked with several of our Women’s Ministry Clients (Cynthia, Heather, and Wendy), while I interviewed with a local workforce agency representative (Helen), as part of a focused effort to expand our Career component.

My work day ended with a short meeting with my newest personal Client (Dennis) and with a one-on-one session with another personal Client (Doug). Again tonight I’m leaving tired, though with a happy heart…


Norm Lowry
Learning Center Coordinator

Above and Beyond

One of the unique marks of Teen Haven is our leadership development with youth. Each summer and throughout the year, dozens of older teens who have been discipled through our ministry serve as jr. counselors and cabin supervisors at camp. Although we have adult supervisors engaged with the kids, the teens themselves are the primary leaders and usually the ones who engage in the most meaningful ministry with the kids at camp.

This summer, we saw a number of our young leaders begin to take steps above and beyond the call of duty as camp leaders. John Schleh, our Philadelphia field director began leading a Monday night bible study for kids in the neighborhood around our Broad Street center. As the numbers grew and the teen leaders found out about it, they began to ask John if they could come on the weeks they weren’t serving at camp to help out at the Bible study.

Soon enough, John was no longer leading the bible study, but rather facilitating the evening and then splitting up the kids into groups to be led by their slightly older peers. To see young men and ladies, not only hungry to learn, but hungry to teach God’s word to others is a wonderful thing.

-Teen Haven

I Blew It Today

For the first time, my daughters are riding the same bus to school. This morning I playfully threatened to wave to them as they stood waiting for the bus. Imagine what they envisioned – Dad, with early morning hair and bedclothes, waving goodbye to them in front of their classmates! So instead of allowing this possibility their anxiety caused them to sneak out of the house while I was getting dressed without saying goodbye to me! And though I caused their nervousness – I was hurt when they didn’t say ‘goodbye!’


As I got into my car I could see them standing at the corner – and I decided to get back at them by ignoring them as I drove by! Sure enough, they waved to me as I passed them! And I looked at them – my two beautiful daughters – and didn’t return their wave! Amazing isn’t it? And I felt like a schmuck for the rest of the ride to work and throughout the day. How could I, an old guy, a supposed grown man, a father at least by definition … so easily let my hurt feelings keep me from acting in love and even nicely to these two special kids? And for the rest of the day as I interacted with the homeless men and women here I was reminded of how, I too, am driven by my feelings and often follow my impulses just like someone who struggles with addiction!

And yet amazingly, God wants me (and us) to be available for His use! It kind of reminds me of how Jesus responded to Peter when He appeared to him following the resurrection. Peter had three times denied knowing Jesus and was now asked whether He absolutely loved Jesus – and Peter answered something to the effect, ‘Yeah, you know I really like you, Lord!’ And yet after each of Peter’s halfhearted responses Jesus gives Peter an assignment – ‘Feed my sheep and tend my lambs!’ This is truly astonishing – how Jesus would choose to continue relating to and using those of us who have failed Him. There is hope for us who are so driven by our feelings. Now pardon me, I must be going. I have to go apologize to two young women!

Steve Brubaker - Residential Ministries Director

Relief or Oppression?

Two portions of Scripture that the Lord has been using recently to deal with me in the issue of service are these:
Ezekiel 18: 5-9 and Psalm 145: 8-13. In one God tells Ezekiel the characteristics He considers important in a righteous man and in the other God gives us the basis, or the foundation for where those characteristics come from and what the result of a righteous life will be.

Neither one have anything to do with my comfort.
Neither one has anything to do with my desire to take the path of least resistance.
Neither one has anything to do with my giftedness, my talents, my cleverness, or my acclaim.

Nope, they have to do with God’s goodness - and how do I respond to that.
God’s loving-kindness – and how do I live it out.
God’s mercies and works – and how does my life exhibit my worship of Him because of those character traits.

"To make known to the sons of men Your mighty acts – And the glory of the majesty of your kingdom…".

Giving bread to the hungry and covering the naked with clothes allows us to fight against physical and spiritual oppression and presents the opportunity to shout from the mountaintops the wonders of God’s glorious works in our own lives.

I believe that Spiritual poverty is the worst kind of poverty that anyone can experience because it affects their eternal destiny, however, some will never know the depths of their need because of hunger pains that won’t subside, or a lack of hope because they feel trapped by their circumstances or position in society.

The only thing worse is when I as a believer put so many restrictions on my service to those in need that I become the oppressor.

Lord, grant me wisdom each day to serve you with mercy, grace, love, gentleness, patience, and joy – that I might make known through my life the glory of the majesty of your kingdom. Amen.

Rick Rutter - Outreach Ministries

The power of reflection

Recently the Lord has been holding mirrors up to me from all directions. He shows me how I relate to those around me. It’s all about me, and I hate that. Even this article is about me; I can’t seem to escape, for very long periods of time, the ugliness that oozes from my flesh.

The few minutes of escape I do get are when I stop and reflect on the forgiveness I received through the Cross of Jesus Christ, the forgiveness forged by innocent blood and offered freely without regard to the severity of what I have done. As I reflect on that it makes me grateful; it fills me up and I can overflow onto others because I truly have been forgiven much.

The truth of it is, I am aware of more sins committed by me than any other person I know. When I reflect on that I am humbled in the presence of whomever I am with. But, again, it is all too rare that those reflections happen. Why is that?

Reflecting on the Cross is like medicine for my sick soul; it makes me better. Yet somehow, for some reason I don’t always take the medicine. I don’t have a good reason why.

…And there I am, forgiven again.

- Aaron Eggers, Men’s Ministries

Eagles fan in Steeler country

Admission: I am a huge Eagles fan, I still occassionally root for the Bears since I spent my earliest years outside of Chicago idolizing Walter "Sweetness" Payton, but this year you may actually catch me cheering for the Steelers once in a while. I am not just jumping on the Super Bowl Champ bandwagon (really), it has more to do with the way they served as valuable object lessons for some of our teen leaders from Lancaster Teen Haven.

In mid-August, we took 7 teen boys on a road trip to visit Steelers training camp. The trip was both a reward for their service as leaders this summer, and a training camp and launching point for their future roles as leaders at Lancaster Teen Haven and at Teen Haven Camp. Too much happened during our whirlwind tour out to Western PA to share all the details, but we sense that this crew of 7 young men are ready to have as successful a year this year as the Steelers did last year.

One of the many lessons we took away from the training camp was how the Steelers are clearly not content to rest on their laurels (in the Laurel Highlands). Although the temperature was hot enough that those of us who were watching from the hillside needed to be deliberate in staying hydrated, the players ran from drill to drill and never let up. Many of the players stayed on the field after practice for extra reps in blocking, route running or just conditioning. Troy Polamalu, their star defensive back, was the last player to leave the field - after running an exhausting series of windsprints, and taking time to pray and thank God for his ability and opportunities.

Just as the training to stay at the top of the NFL never lets up, so our training in following Christ never ends (God will continue the good work that he has begun until the day of perfection).

-Jack Crowley, Teen Haven

Beggars in need of "bread"

I realized the other day as I was speaking to a group from a local church that many truly do not understand what we do here at Water Street or understand who lives here.

As I am describing to them that we have clients here at the Mission who are college educated, to the illiterate (and everything in between), and that many know Jesus (or know of) and what they really need to grasp is that they are lovable, they were taking notes! This church wants to come and do chapel but truly doesn’t understand the need.

I don’t think they are that unusual. How many other churches or believers come to “help the homeless” at Water Street and have no clue what the needs are? We got into a discussion then that “we” are “they” and “they” are “us”. A couple of people in the group started to share from their life experiences how it could have been them that made choices that led to homelessness & hopelessness. I shared stories of abuse related by residents that makes me wonder how they even survived. Mental illness and substance abuse becomes an escape with many associated lies being told to them by family, friends, the world and Satan. After being told you are no good and worthless enough times you will begin to believe it. And yes, they have taken a path that alienates them from all support. They may have lied, stolen and abused others, just as they were lied to, stolen from, and abused. Satan loves this cycle of the lost that goes from generation to generation. Keeping them blind, hopeless and constantly hungry, this leads them to feed from what the world offers.

This discussion then led to some creative ideas from this church on how they can share their lives, not preach to others that they need Jesus, but come and listen & share what God has done for them. How they have been rescued, that we all need to be rescued by God. I couldn’t emphasize enough to them that they need to share what God puts on their hearts about their life with Him. He knows each person in that chapel and can (and wants to) meet their need in His perfect way. Whoever is sharing with the residents at Water Street, whether staff, volunteers, or churches, we must ask God to work through us for His glory. Only He can transform hearts and lives, remember how He transformed you? The residents are not any different than any member at any local church. We are all beggars in need of bread. We just happen to know the “Bread of Life” and should share!

-Gale Thomason, Water Street Clinics

God provides

As our women come into WSRM and allow the Lord to change their lives, they very often impact others outside the Mission. The following is a recent testimony from a resident who is working in the community at a secular job.

“I get to work about an hour early every day (due to bus schedules), so during this time I do my devotions. A fellow worker would come into the breakroom and after awhile we started to share about what God was doing in our lives. I shared that I was beginning to look for my own place, and that I may have found one, and what I would have to spend to get it.

One morning this coworker came up to my register and handed me a card. I was going to open it later, but she asked me to open it right away. I did, and in this card was a LOVE GIFT of $375 to help me pay my security deposit.

And in the meantime all the people that I work with are helping me with furniture, a TV, an air conditioner, and cleaning supplies. God has surely placed some really special people in my life. And I give all PRAISE to Him.”

-Elaine Hostetter, Women's Ministry

Helping each other

Today I had a couple of counseling sessions. In counseling I have often heard things that have helped me.

In addition, I also met with clients who wanted to see me, “off the clock”. These times have an even greater enjoyment, for it is what doesn’t have to be done. I heard about the blessing of going the second mile, and these illustrate the benefit of it.

Showed my class a video on yielding rights and God pointed to an issue. In my last contribution to the blog, I wrote about being proud of being humble. A further area was revealed today.

At the end of the day a former client surprised me with a visit. Seeing him was very good. He even helped me locate a place I had longed to see, but did not find until today: the library. Continued relationships with graduated clients are a benefit of Water Street Rescue Mission. I have seen it with the chaplains and their former clients and experienced it anew today.

Each of these events has something in common. In helping others, I am helped.

-Michael Haines, Men’s Ministry

Leap of faith

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” Proverbs 3:5 NIV

During one of our recent summer endeavors, my co-worker and I were treated to a biblical object lesson (of sorts) from a youth who attends our day camp program. Although this young man had no idea that he was teaching us a valuable lesson, his action resembled the Hebrew picture imagery, which Jesus used to teach his disciples and captivate so many others.

The setting couldn’t have been more picturesque; beautiful Mount Gretna on a pristine August afternoon. Although Travonne was hesitant to make this trip with his peers, he was willing after an encouragement (and hug) from Mr. Jose. It wasn’t that this young gentleman didn’t enjoy our various special outings, but most likely was imprisoned by some of his own fears. Tra’s hesisitancy to join us this particular day was due to last year’s trip, when he wasn’t able to swim out 100 yards to the high-dive tower to hang with his friends, who were jumping ( and making their counselors nervous every time!) into the cold water below.

As we began the day practicing swimming techniques in the shallow end of the lake, I couldn’t help but notice that Travonne would often glance out to the high-dive tower. His yearning to be alongside the other boys seemed to stir up a tension within him, which wouldn’t rest. As his skills increased, so did his desire to make the “big jump.”

A half-hour prior to departure time from the lake, Tra (with tears in his eyes) confessed that he was ready to slay this “giant” in his life. Along with an escort of six experienced swimmers, we made our way out to the tower successfully. The moment of truth had arrived. The fear that tried to paralyze this young man as he climbed the ladder was eclipsed by the increasing sound of spectators chanting “Tra! Tra! Tra!” The moment of truth was here. After a 10-minute “apprehension” session at the top, Travonne nervously leaped into the water (safely), and was congratulated by those who acted as his “safety net.” As they say in those credit card advertisements, “Priceless!”

So, what was it that we actually learned from this? For one, in our Christian walk, we can be assured that the Lord will stretch us in calling us to do things which stretch us and flat out, scare us. He also wants us to trust Him first, but also to welcome the encouragement of those fellow believers, who have gone through similar experiences. At times the victory may come at the “reckless abandonment” of closing our eyes and jumping into the trustful hands of our Heavenly Father!

- Michael Kerrigone, Lancaster Teen Haven

Happily ever after

Today my husband and celebrate 35 years of marriage. In some ways August 21, 1971 seems like a lifetime ago. I wish I could tell you this couple lived “happily ever after” since then, but I can’t. Life isn’t a fairy tale. Reality creeps in and the fairy tale quality of dating disappears. Suddenly disappointments and unmet expectations make “Mr. (or Mrs.). Right” seems all “Wrong.”

I think back to the starry-eyed bride and groom on our wedding day. We thought we had it all. Our marriage would be different from all the others. Oh, yes, we had heard that the bloom of first love fades as time wears on, but surely it wouldn’t happen to us. We were different. We were committed to making our marriage the best in the world. People would look at us and wonder how we do it. Idealistic? Absolutely! Different from any other couples on their wedding day? Probably not!

Just like every other couple the reality of every day living set in and I dare say that the next years of our marriage were not unlike those of many other couples. There were days, and weeks, and yes even a few years when we learned you really can’t just live on love. Love doesn’t pay the electric bill or put food on the table; it takes cold, hard cash. Love doesn’t mean “never having to say you’re sorry,” a phrase taken from the movie Love Story. In sickness and in health really does mean cleaning up the mess when the spouse and kids are all sick at the same time. And really any married couple will probably admit that things often do get worse before they get better.

But then I remember the joys. The thrill of holding our first born, a daughter, and later her brother. The celebration of milestones in their lives, which marked milestones in our lives as well. Observing first hand in their adult lives that they have embraced many of the values we taught and will pass them on to the next generation. Looking back to lives we have touched through foster parenting, home groups, mentoring, counseling, and teaching and feel a sense of satisfaction that we were able to pass on our heritage of faith. And I thank God for thirty-five years of relationships that have developed with people in our church, our neighborhoods, and our workplaces.

Most of all, I look back and know it was the hand of God that kept us going when things got tough. And as time will do, the struggles and heartaches are dimmed and the joys and celebrations of thirty-five years are enhanced. And I know that life is good. Thirty-five years doesn’t seem like a lifetime ago. It’s a joy and a privilege to walk hand in hand through life with my husband. I look forward to spending many more years with him – maybe another 35 so that we too can celebrate our 70th anniversary together just like his grandparents did!

Come to think of it – the bride and groom really are living “happily every after!” It all depends on your definition of happiness!

-Lorraine Brandt, Wonder Club School

Sorry for the inconsistency

I've been out of the office a bit lately (Willow Creek Leadership Summit, RV trip with some Teen Haven guys to Steeler's Camp, and tomorrow for a short vacation), and I neglected to get someone else to take over my blog editing duties. Next week, we should get back on track with a consistent posting pattern (hopefully a new one each day).

In the meantime, check out the two we just posted below, and practice extending grace and forgiveness to your humble blog editor...

Thanks.

-Jack

A mess?!? Who, Me???

Mark McMinn, in his book, “Why Sin Matters: The Surprising Relationship Between Our Sin and God’s Grace” reminds us of that: “Part of our mess is not knowing we are a mess….It’s been observed in surveys that the average person believes he (or she) is better than the average person.”

As we talk with, work with, pray with men and women who have run out of everything and need our help, it is all too easy to fall into the trap McMinn mentions – seeing ourselves as super-saints bending low to help a one less fortunate. When we think we have the answers to someone else’s problems and just can’t understand why they don’t want to take our advice, it is vital to avoid adopting an “us against them” mentality - an attitude of superiority like the Pharisee in the temple (Luke 18:11).

When my children were growing up, I’d occasionally hear one of them say, “You always take his (or her) side because you just like him (or her) best.” I knew they could not understand until they had children of their own how a mother can love each of her children with her whole heart and still have plenty of love left over. How much greater than this is the Father’s love for us – all of us – love beyond all measure. God knows all our faults and still considers us His treasure. When we trust Him with our failures, He uses them to move us forward toward maturity. Can we do less for those He has called us to love?

“I have a maker. He formed my heart.
Before even time began, my life was in His hands.
He knows my name;
He knows my every thought.
He sees each tear that falls and hears me when I call.”

“I have a Father. He calls me His own.
He’ll never leave me no matter where I go.
He knows my name;
He knows my every thought.
He sees each tear that falls and hears me when I call.”

-Vicki Bollman, Women’s Ministries

Gratefully doing God's will

On Friday I had the privilege to meet two ladies who were volunteering at the Lydia Center. Barbara Sargent and Anne Yocum, from Community of Grace Fellowship in Mansfield, PA, spent Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the Lydia Center.

How did you end up coming to the Lydia Center to volunteer? We first learned of the Lydia Center through two people who used to pastor our church. They moved to Lancaster and became staff at Water Street Rescue Mission. Last year they invited us down for a tour and to do some volunteer work. We wanted to come back again this year and do more! Our church also encourages us to be servants in the community. We have been blessed and we want to share that blessing!

What have you done in your time here so far? Painting! We have painted the trim around the windows, the front door and other odds and ends. We are also eating supper with the Lydia Center residents tonight and then having a game night.

What have you enjoyed the most? We have really enjoyed getting to know some of the ladies here. They are so open! They welcomed us and made us feel very much at home. We’ve also enjoyed the fellowship we’ve shared together, “gabbing” while we paint.

What will you remember from your time here? We were having a conversation with one of the residents and she said something that I (Barbara) think I will always remember. She said that she is here, learning to “gratefully do God’s will.” That has been so challenging to me—how often am I grateful that I can choose to do God’s will.

Thank you Anne and Barbara for the blessing of your time, your work and your fellowship! And thank you to each our volunteers who have shared your life, your resources, your time and yourself with us here at

-Carissa Martin, Volunteer Coordinator

Thank you

As I walk around our campus here on Prince Street I feel a sense of gratitude. Our new Men’s Dorm is both very needed and a special treat for our guys. It feels like home to our men.

The renovations being done to our old 260 building are equally wonderful. The expanded Medical-Dental clinic, the extra classrooms, the expanded Learning & Career Center, the new Family Shelter and the addition of Air Conditioning in our Women’s Emergency Shelter are all greatly appreciated gifts to the community of homeless men, women and children in Lancaster County.

I am thrilled to be part of this outstanding organization, staffed with men & women devoted to serving the Lord through excellent, sacrificial service to those in need.

I especially want to thank the generous donors who have responded to the Lord’s prompting and provided the funds and the trust required to do what we do.

And thank you Jesus for creating and sustaining this ministry.

-Aaron Eggers, Men’s Ministries

Crisis?

Monday morning on the way to the mission, I began to review the upcoming day. My thoughts went back to a ‘crisis’ I was having the prior Monday. I knew that something had bothered me a week ago but couldn’t remember what the crisis was! Isn’t that odd? Nothing could help me recall what worried me so much from the Monday prior! And it got me thinking: how often is the present very annoying and bothersome thing really the crisis I make it out to be?

When I’m in ‘crisis mode’ I take things that others do as personal affronts to my self-worth, my heart rate increases, I’m more anxious about pretty much everything and life looks bleak and hopeless. And I wonder why others aren’t seeing the same ‘crisis’ that I am!

I don’t totally understand the ‘psychology’ of why I perceive some things at times as a crisis but I have noticed this: often over time and with a bit of perspective my situation turns out not as dire as I am making it!

And I’m reminded that Jesus never seemed to operate in ‘crisis mode’ in spite of being surrounded by real human tragedy and others who wanted to convince Him of the crisis of their situation! And what was His ‘secret?’ Why didn’t He lurch from one crisis situation to the next trying to stay ahead of the pressing human need all around Him? I’m not totally sure but am reminded of His own words that speak of His desire to obey the Father and not be governed by the ‘press of the crowd.’

Therefore Jesus answered and was saying to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner. "For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself is doing; and the Father will show Him greater works than these, so that you will marvel.” (John 5:19-20)

-Steve Brubaker, Residential Ministries

He makes all things new

The clinic had a beautiful Hibiscus plant in the window that was blooming about every 3 days with a large orange flower. Millie & I loved looking at that flower and believed it was a sign from God of the wonderful work He is doing through the clinics to make people “bloom”. He has a plan for each of us, and it is good!

One day, Millie noticed that the plant’s leaves were turning yellow and it was infested with aphids. My heart sank and I prayed, “Dear Lord, I love this plant. Everyday as I looked upon it I got hope for the clinic and that those we touch will bloom and grow under your hand.” I looked at it for a couple of days with sorrow and finally, with Millie’s encouragement, took it home. She advised me to trim it back to short branches (it was about 2 feet tall) and then treat it with aphid spray.

I took it home and placed it on my deck, away from the other plants so as to not infect them, and looked at it for 3 days. I just couldn’t bear to cut its beautiful branches (although they weren’t as beautiful with the infection) for I remembered how beautiful it used to be, and was afraid it would die if I cut it back to far. Finally, I realized if I did nothing it was going to die also. I had to try. So I cut the branches off to about 6 inches & sprayed it twice with the aphid spray, gave it water with nutrients and prayed.

Wow, within days I noticed fresh green tender leaves sprouting from places that were barren and appeared dead! My heart had hope, and as I watched it grow healthier I became filled with joy. He was saving the plant from death, but I had to do my part by pruning and treating the disease.

It has now been a month and the Hibiscus plant is full and strong. As I sat and thanked God for this, He reminded me that this is what He is doing in the clinics. Clients come to us for their disease (illness, decay) and we have to cut out and treat the disease and give them medicine. He then works in them to heal. His healing is way beyond the physical. He has us start with the physical in the clinic as the immediate need, and then by offering His Word, prayer and His Spirit, He heals their body, mind and spirit. He makes all things new!

I am amazed at how God uses the everyday things in our lives to speak His truth & wisdom to us! Sometimes though we don’t want to go through the pain of pruning in our lives even though it is exactly what we need!

Ezekiel 36:26 - I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.
II Corinthians 5:17 - Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

-Gale Thomason, Water Street Clinics

The passing of a frequent missionite (7-28-06)

(Tonight 8/3/06 - we will have a special memorial service in the chapel at 7pm for Rick)

Rick Ferguson (45) was one of a kind in many ways. He certainly fit the stereotype “homeless man” from the outside but on the inside he was nowhere close to a stereotype (guess God made sure of that).

Rick had a difficult home life and was put up for adoption at a young age. Thankfully he was adopted by a loving family. However in his teenage years he overheard his adoptive parents talking about his biological parents and discovered to his horror that his father killed his mother when Rick was very young and got away with it. It’s not hard to fathom why Rick would have had a life long rage and anger at his father and authority and why he had a hard time trusting people. When he was 25 and high on drugs he nearly killed himself in a motorcycle accident and has had seizures ever since.

The combination of drugs and alcohol, frequent seizures and secondary physical problems all contributed to a very shoddy work history which also contributed to his homelessness. His anger and trust issues led to his dismissal from many a shelter, hospital and church soup kitchens… which landed him on the streets… which led to vagrancy… and arrests… and fines to pay.

I was so hoping that Rick could let go of his anger and learn to trust me. There were times he did, but then he would revert to “his old man” – as he called it. In spite of his occasional departures from the mission, he continued to attend church at West End on a VERY regular basis and I think he felt very comfortable there – maybe even felt that he once again belonged to a family. Sure we put up with the smells, the occasional attitude and seizures but we also got blessed by his tender heart for the Lord, compassion for others and generosity. He was the first one ready to serve when there was work to be done at the church. In spite of Rick’s many and constant physical, emotional and financial problems – he also deeply cared for other hurting people. I must also mention that he loved to play guitar and was ALWAYS working on a song.

Rick was an extremely passionate man and it often came out in negative ways for much of his life. I’m glad we could also see the blessing side of that passion. Rick was a perfect example of a sinner saved by grace, BUT he was equally a reflection of God’s workmanship. Good bye Rick, I will miss you as a client and as a brother.

-Chuck Albrecht, Men’s Ministry

Amazing impact

As we’ve said so many times, we are so thankful for the volunteers who faithfully serve God by serving at Water Street Rescue Mission! But when I tell people that in 2005 we had over 6,000 volunteers who donated more than 25,000 hours of volunteer service, many are amazed! Our volunteers do so many things, from painting the kitchen to serving meals, from mentoring a client to driving him to an appointment, from treating an illness to providing dentures. Our volunteers are amazing people with many and varied God-given talents!

So far this year from January through June (July’s hours have not been calculated yet), over 3,000 volunteers have blessed Water Street Rescue Mission! Take a look at the chart below to see where these volunteers are being put to work!

Though we are blessed with so many wonderful volunteers, we still have need for more! If you want to find out more information about volunteering at Water Street Rescue Mission, please check out our website, www.wsrm.org, or contact me at volunteer@wsrm.org.

January - June 2006
--------------------------------Hours---------People
Administration-----------------335.25-----------35
Community Outreach----------523.00-----------84
Dental Clinic-------------------823.50----------166
Development-----------------1293.00----------176
Food Service------------------3034.25--------1306
Learning/Career Center--------155.00----------23
Lydia Center------------------2015.00---------241
Medical Clinic------------------1619.25---------254
Men's Ministry-----------------144.50-----------18
Redistribution-----------------1908.25---------618
Thrift Store----------------------12.00-----------2
Women's Ministry---------------156.25----------38
Wonder Club--------------------412.50----------62
Teen Haven-------------------3635.00---------190

Totals------------------------16066.75--------3213

Thanks

-Carissa Martin, Volunteer Coordinator