I had a filling replaced today. And I don’t like pain. So I was glad when the dentist used a topical anesthetic to blunt the sting of the needle before the real pain killing stuff! I can’t eat anything yet and the dull ache in my head is making it a little difficult to concentrate.
Does anyone really like pain? I remember the one time that I spanked my oldest daughter when she was young. She had openly defied her mother and I and knew the consequence of such direct disobedience. And she started crying before my hand tapped (and it really was a tap) her thick, diaper-padded bottom! And it was a bit humorous, that she would cry before the ‘pain’ was inflicted. Yet her crying matched my response to the prospect of pain at the dentist quite similarly.
This is an odd thing. Pain is painful and finding healing from the pain – is painful! The toothache hurt and so did the remedy. My daughter anticipated her bottom a bit sore but would have realized greater pain as an adult knowing only parenting without loving boundaries! Is it possible that pain whether inflicted or chosen can cause us to grow in character?
As we experience pain in life here is the reassurance for those who follow Jesus, the Suffering Servant: In times of our deepest pain, God can provide comfort adequate with the suffering. As another has said, ‘Jesus will go through our pain with us.’ May our pain encourage us to grow deeper in our relationship with this One who knows and understands!
- Steve Brubaker, Residential Ministries
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Learning to be responsible...
Learning to be responsible can be difficult. Once you have learned this, change isn’t hard. Water Street Rescue Mission absolutely teaches change. It’s available, if the individual wants it. Adapting to change & structure is the model. Succeeding is what everyone should aim for. Once learning to trust the Program Staff & Counselors, dealing with the day’s situations becomes easier. This is not to say that everything is always smooth. Life here has its “moments”. This is when you learn to have a high tolerance level.
One of the biggest issues that God stresses is being humble. This being a Christian organization, devoting yourself to Bible studies during your stay here is a part of what we do. This can pick you up on the sad days and even make you think about life in a different way. Having faith will give you hope. Wanting something and having a group of people supporting you makes it possible to give your life to God.
All of the pain does not leave over night. Patience is a learning process, here. Healing is a learning process, here. And, we learn because we want to learn. I was looking for change so I came here. Blessing is in it for me. I’m close to the Staff. I finished my time here and chose to come back to finish the Learning Center and for Bible Study. I can say that I’ve received help from the Water Street Rescue Mission.
- Dominai (Learning Center Student)
One of the biggest issues that God stresses is being humble. This being a Christian organization, devoting yourself to Bible studies during your stay here is a part of what we do. This can pick you up on the sad days and even make you think about life in a different way. Having faith will give you hope. Wanting something and having a group of people supporting you makes it possible to give your life to God.
All of the pain does not leave over night. Patience is a learning process, here. Healing is a learning process, here. And, we learn because we want to learn. I was looking for change so I came here. Blessing is in it for me. I’m close to the Staff. I finished my time here and chose to come back to finish the Learning Center and for Bible Study. I can say that I’ve received help from the Water Street Rescue Mission.
- Dominai (Learning Center Student)
Friday, March 23, 2007
A wild ride
Our shelter devotions this morning, from Chapter 25 of the Purpose Driven Life, dealt with God’s authority over everything that happens to us and His promise to make all of it work together for good when we belong to Him. I put that promise into practice personally when I left work last Friday evening – in a blizzard.
In my younger days, I was not so concerned about bad weather. As a matter of fact, snow was an occasion for celebration as my children and I took our sleds to Buchanan Park and raced each other up and down the hills. Now that my sledding days (and a few unwanted pounds) are behind me, I look at snow through different eyes. I must admit to being fearful of traveling in it. (Maybe “terrified” would be a better word.) While my heart tells me, “be not afraid,” my mind says, “you might break a bone or lose your car, and then what would you do?” and I want to watch it through my living room window rather than shovel it or drive in it “up close and personal.”
Before I left the mission Friday night a little after 10 p.m., I gave my safety to the Lord. And, as I traveled through the slippery streets of Lancaster, He was along for the ride. I thanked Him for the empty seat beside me where I knew my guardian angel was in residence, working overtime on my behalf. As I slid through the city looking for a path from shelter to home, (experiencing what it must be like to steer a toboggan over rough terrain), I went with a song in my heart. Actually, I think I made up about a dozen new verses to “God is So Good.” And indeed God was good. I made it home safely and found a son and grandson inside to welcome me.
It took slightly less than an hour to make the five-minute trip home. Yet the confidence that God would deliver me, no matter what, cast out all fear. I thanked Him again and again upon arriving home, but had to ask myself. Would I, could I have thanked Him again and again if my ride had not ended so well? Oh, I hope so. Would God have been any less good, had I slid into another vehicle on my way home, or not been able to stop at an intersection? Would I have questioned His faithfulness if I had awakened in Intensive Care?
Lord, I thank you for your unfailing faithfulness. May I be faithful right back, especially when things don’t go my way. What a blessing to know that your plan for me is perfect, no matter what it includes. I see the present clearly, but you know the first from the last. So, when I can’t understand, when I can’t see your hand, help me Lord to trust your heart.
- Vicki Bollman, Women’s Ministry
In my younger days, I was not so concerned about bad weather. As a matter of fact, snow was an occasion for celebration as my children and I took our sleds to Buchanan Park and raced each other up and down the hills. Now that my sledding days (and a few unwanted pounds) are behind me, I look at snow through different eyes. I must admit to being fearful of traveling in it. (Maybe “terrified” would be a better word.) While my heart tells me, “be not afraid,” my mind says, “you might break a bone or lose your car, and then what would you do?” and I want to watch it through my living room window rather than shovel it or drive in it “up close and personal.”
Before I left the mission Friday night a little after 10 p.m., I gave my safety to the Lord. And, as I traveled through the slippery streets of Lancaster, He was along for the ride. I thanked Him for the empty seat beside me where I knew my guardian angel was in residence, working overtime on my behalf. As I slid through the city looking for a path from shelter to home, (experiencing what it must be like to steer a toboggan over rough terrain), I went with a song in my heart. Actually, I think I made up about a dozen new verses to “God is So Good.” And indeed God was good. I made it home safely and found a son and grandson inside to welcome me.
It took slightly less than an hour to make the five-minute trip home. Yet the confidence that God would deliver me, no matter what, cast out all fear. I thanked Him again and again upon arriving home, but had to ask myself. Would I, could I have thanked Him again and again if my ride had not ended so well? Oh, I hope so. Would God have been any less good, had I slid into another vehicle on my way home, or not been able to stop at an intersection? Would I have questioned His faithfulness if I had awakened in Intensive Care?
Lord, I thank you for your unfailing faithfulness. May I be faithful right back, especially when things don’t go my way. What a blessing to know that your plan for me is perfect, no matter what it includes. I see the present clearly, but you know the first from the last. So, when I can’t understand, when I can’t see your hand, help me Lord to trust your heart.
- Vicki Bollman, Women’s Ministry
Monday, March 19, 2007
Finding Favor
One of my favorite Bible characters is Queen Esther. I suppose the fairy tale like image of a quiet little Jewish girl capturing the heart of the great king and becoming his queen would appeal to most people. We probably all long for the sudden rags to riches moment in our own lives, especially on those days when it seems like our own little world is falling apart around us.
Recently I’ve had the opportunity to study the story of Esther in greater detail and I have just begun to discover what it was that made her such a great person. Through reading and studying the book Finding Favor with the King by Tommy Tenney, I’ve been discovering the secrets of her success! Hidden among palace protocol is an in depth look at the purpose of the Bible – access to the very presence of God. The book of Esther holds the secrets to developing a relationship with God that leads us in to the very presence of the King Himself. Esther spent a year preparing herself for one night with the king in the hopes that she would find favor with him and become his queen. That year of preparation led far beyond her expectations to the point that put her in a place to save an entire nation from total annihilation.
Esther lived in the palace and studied the king during her year of preparation. She made it her goal to know his likes and dislikes. She was more concerned with knowing what would please him than she was with knowing what the kingdom had to offer her. In the same way we need to worship God for who He is and to bring Him honor rather than concerning ourselves with what He can do for us! We need to study our King in order to enjoy the intimacy that comes from spending time with someone we love. The greatest lesson we can learn from Esther is to fall in love with the King! Coming to God through a heart of genuine worship and praise brings us into the very presence of the King and we can enjoy His favor. Who knows what great thing being in the presence of our King will come from His favor. What is God preparing you for through an intimate relationship with Him?
It only took one night with the king to turn the peasant girl Esther into a princess. One moment in the presence of God can change our lives forever. So don’t worry about your future. Instead spend time preparing for your moment of favor. Intimacy with the King can change everything!
Recently I’ve had the opportunity to study the story of Esther in greater detail and I have just begun to discover what it was that made her such a great person. Through reading and studying the book Finding Favor with the King by Tommy Tenney, I’ve been discovering the secrets of her success! Hidden among palace protocol is an in depth look at the purpose of the Bible – access to the very presence of God. The book of Esther holds the secrets to developing a relationship with God that leads us in to the very presence of the King Himself. Esther spent a year preparing herself for one night with the king in the hopes that she would find favor with him and become his queen. That year of preparation led far beyond her expectations to the point that put her in a place to save an entire nation from total annihilation.
Esther lived in the palace and studied the king during her year of preparation. She made it her goal to know his likes and dislikes. She was more concerned with knowing what would please him than she was with knowing what the kingdom had to offer her. In the same way we need to worship God for who He is and to bring Him honor rather than concerning ourselves with what He can do for us! We need to study our King in order to enjoy the intimacy that comes from spending time with someone we love. The greatest lesson we can learn from Esther is to fall in love with the King! Coming to God through a heart of genuine worship and praise brings us into the very presence of the King and we can enjoy His favor. Who knows what great thing being in the presence of our King will come from His favor. What is God preparing you for through an intimate relationship with Him?
It only took one night with the king to turn the peasant girl Esther into a princess. One moment in the presence of God can change our lives forever. So don’t worry about your future. Instead spend time preparing for your moment of favor. Intimacy with the King can change everything!
-Lorraine Brandt, Wonder Club
(Ironically, not knowing that Lorraine's post would be about Esther, my 5 yr-old daughter just drew the picture above, "Esther visits the king," for me to bring to work -- Jack C, Teen Haven)
Friday, March 16, 2007
Identity
The following was part of a letter I am sending to Teen Haven donors this week (since writing the letter, another teen was shot and killed at a party in Lancaster in the last week - 2 others shot in the same incident as well):
Recent local events have increased the sense of urgency around the issue of gang violence.
Within a two hour period, four separate shootings occurred in Lancaster City leaving several individuals hospitalized. Days later a seven-year-old girl was shot in the crossfire of rival gangs while walking to the store with her mother.
Police estimate that as many as 20 organized gangs operate in Lancaster City, totaling 600-2,000 members.
Lancaster is not alone. York and Columbia have seen similar gang related crime affect their neighborhoods. And in Philadelphia last year, police documented more than 1,800 shootings and 406 murders (more than one per day). Police estimate that more than half of these shootings involved young street gang members (under 20 years old).
When urban teens struggle to define who they are or who they want to be, and when their family or church is unable to provide a sense of self and belonging, a street gang often fills that void.
Interviews with gang members and former gang members prove the same: Teens are looking for a sense of identity and belonging. Teens often refer to their gang as their family.
Teen Haven is a part of the community-based conversation determining how to address the rise in gangs and violence in our community. One thing remains clear to us though, even in the midst of these discussions: Programs only provide a viable alternative to street life if they can help a teen understand who they are and how they belong to something bigger than themselves.
Every day through camps and city programs, Teen Haven is helping kids find their identity. In January alone, 27 teens decided to join Christ’s family by accepting His gift of grace and committing to follow Him. Hundreds of kids are being nurtured in their faith and prepared to walk with Christ in the face of all the trials and temptations of the city through our discipleship programs.
This is the core of what Teen Haven has been offering inner-city teens for over 40 years. When a youth connects with Teen Haven, they learn they are a child of the King and can be a part of the greatest family in the world. When someone truly grasps all that it means to be a child of God and to be loved by Him, when they experience the fellowship, selfless love and support that can only be found in the Body of Christ, the allure of a gang is greatly diminished.
- Jack Crowley, Teen Haven
Recent local events have increased the sense of urgency around the issue of gang violence.
Within a two hour period, four separate shootings occurred in Lancaster City leaving several individuals hospitalized. Days later a seven-year-old girl was shot in the crossfire of rival gangs while walking to the store with her mother.
Police estimate that as many as 20 organized gangs operate in Lancaster City, totaling 600-2,000 members.
Lancaster is not alone. York and Columbia have seen similar gang related crime affect their neighborhoods. And in Philadelphia last year, police documented more than 1,800 shootings and 406 murders (more than one per day). Police estimate that more than half of these shootings involved young street gang members (under 20 years old).
When urban teens struggle to define who they are or who they want to be, and when their family or church is unable to provide a sense of self and belonging, a street gang often fills that void.
Interviews with gang members and former gang members prove the same: Teens are looking for a sense of identity and belonging. Teens often refer to their gang as their family.
Teen Haven is a part of the community-based conversation determining how to address the rise in gangs and violence in our community. One thing remains clear to us though, even in the midst of these discussions: Programs only provide a viable alternative to street life if they can help a teen understand who they are and how they belong to something bigger than themselves.
Every day through camps and city programs, Teen Haven is helping kids find their identity. In January alone, 27 teens decided to join Christ’s family by accepting His gift of grace and committing to follow Him. Hundreds of kids are being nurtured in their faith and prepared to walk with Christ in the face of all the trials and temptations of the city through our discipleship programs.
This is the core of what Teen Haven has been offering inner-city teens for over 40 years. When a youth connects with Teen Haven, they learn they are a child of the King and can be a part of the greatest family in the world. When someone truly grasps all that it means to be a child of God and to be loved by Him, when they experience the fellowship, selfless love and support that can only be found in the Body of Christ, the allure of a gang is greatly diminished.
- Jack Crowley, Teen Haven
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
More random thoughts … to follow Jack’s example
- I sure enjoyed seeing the movie, Amazing Grace, this weekend with my family though I’m glad the director didn’t graphically portray all that the African captives had to bear on the trip over. It was a bit easier on my conscience not to have to linger on the great suffering those on the ship endured. And it was striking to realize how long William Wilberforce labored to see slavery abolished. May we be as persistent in doing right.
- Yesterday, I was able to speak to a young female resident in a way that I would speak to my daughters. I was amazed at how she was riveted to my words as I spoke. I can’t think what I said was terribly profound. But what a great opportunity - in some small way – to fill the void left by a father who wasn’t there with hope that she might better know the Father who is always there.
- I felt sad at the Monday press conference announcing the guilty in the latest two shootings in Lancaster. Sad for a little girl – who is thankfully headed toward full recovery, sad for a young man who is dead, sad for turf wars and the presence of drugs in our community. Sad for young people out late at night groping for a manhood or womanhood they find elusive. Sad for those with a seared conscience to use the phrase of one state official. Sad for the role models of the day that champion bluster and self-interest.
- I guess Senators Specter and Casey can get some more bucks into our community and agencies can keep talking and partnering – which is all good. But who’s raising our children? Who’s there to build a sense of self, to provide loving boundaries when the kids are young, to model walking through tough times in a way that encourages the development of character and perseverance?
- Did you notice how the white snow by the side of the road so promptly turned black from the fumes of the cars and trucks that passed by? It kind of reminds me of how the world started – pristine and untouched – and how we quickly spoiled God’s creation with the dirt of pride and a consuming self-interest. And I remember G K Chesterton’s quote, "Certain new theologians dispute original sin, which is the only part of Christian theology which can really be proved." Sad, real, and profound. See above.
- Steve Brubaker, Residential Ministries
Monday, March 12, 2007
Least of these, Pt 5
The final installment in our study about responding to the needs of the "least of these."
Why do we respond?
Why do we respond?
- 1 John 3:16-18
- It is really quite simple – I respond because God loves me and as a result I love Him. That’s it in its simplest form. Anything else is window dressing. Its His love for me that drew me to Him, That even allowed for Him to desire to seek me, and to send Jesus on a mission for me. I respond – because its not about this world – and its not about me – its about God, His kingdom, and His desire that none should perish. Imagine using me (and you) so that none should perish.
- I respond because it is the evidence of my love for my Creator and His abundant love abiding in my heart. Oh, that I would get it right more often ….
- Father, “let me not love with word or tongue, but in deed and truth” …. Amen.
- Rick Rutter, former Director of Outreach Ministries (now owner of Bubba's Breakaway)
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Integrity
Integrity: courage to meet the demands of reality
Recently I heard a definition for integrity that really struck me as profound: Integrity is the quality of character that has the courage to meet the demands of reality.
As I considered this definition in the light of the recovery process I had one of those "aha" moments. One of the things that have gone wrong in the addicted life is the loss of courage to meet the demands of reality (life).
Those of us who know Jesus and (are beginning to) understand his ways and means know that he promises to never give us more than we can handle. We also know his agenda for us all is growth toward maturity, and His favorite tool for helping us grow is hardships.
Trusting these facts we can embrace the difficulties of life (reality) with a courage that sees us through the event. This perseverance brings with it maturity and strength of character (integrity).
Those who have been damaged in their upbringing and who do not yet trust that the Lord loves and cares for them are often anxious (terrified?) by the demands of life. Our task for these ones then is to encourage them, or put the courage back in them.
We need to make certain that any assistance we provide is crafted to put courage into them that will help them meet the demands of life. Often the easiest assistance for us to give is the worst for them to get. Giving a man a fish is good, but if we never instill in him the courage to fish on his own –we have simply made him dependent upon us.
- Aaron Eggers, Men’s Ministries
Recently I heard a definition for integrity that really struck me as profound: Integrity is the quality of character that has the courage to meet the demands of reality.
As I considered this definition in the light of the recovery process I had one of those "aha" moments. One of the things that have gone wrong in the addicted life is the loss of courage to meet the demands of reality (life).
Those of us who know Jesus and (are beginning to) understand his ways and means know that he promises to never give us more than we can handle. We also know his agenda for us all is growth toward maturity, and His favorite tool for helping us grow is hardships.
Trusting these facts we can embrace the difficulties of life (reality) with a courage that sees us through the event. This perseverance brings with it maturity and strength of character (integrity).
Those who have been damaged in their upbringing and who do not yet trust that the Lord loves and cares for them are often anxious (terrified?) by the demands of life. Our task for these ones then is to encourage them, or put the courage back in them.
We need to make certain that any assistance we provide is crafted to put courage into them that will help them meet the demands of life. Often the easiest assistance for us to give is the worst for them to get. Giving a man a fish is good, but if we never instill in him the courage to fish on his own –we have simply made him dependent upon us.
- Aaron Eggers, Men’s Ministries
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Random Thoughts: snow, coffee and conversation
- Man, I'm feeling sore. I spent a couple of hours today shovelling and my body is not used to it. It makes me long for the days when I worked hands on with the kids at the youth center and exercise (in the form of basketball, dodgeball, "monkey's run", roller skating, tag, etc) was part of my daily ministry. Now I spend most of my work time sitting (at my desk, in the car, at meetings, etc).
- Although the petty soreness I'm feeling as I type this doesn't compare to the pain he discusses in his books, I am reminded of how Dr. Paul Brand discusses pain as a gift from God. Check out his books if you get the chance. Today I can be grateful for a body that functions well enough to become sore from physical exertion and work.
- After my last bout of shovelling today, I spent a little time warming up with coffee and conversation at the youth center with one of our youth staff, Michael. 40 minutes of conversation about movies, biblical interpretation, sports, marriage (what percentage of the time our wives are correct and we are wrong- somewhere between 85 and 99.9%), exegesis vs. eisegesis, the kids we work with, rules of dating from our college days, and desert island dvds. I think the fellowship and conversation served to warm my body and soul more than the coffee ever could. As much as I like a good cup of coffee, it is the conversation that make a coffee house an inviting place isn't it?
- Shovelling also reminded me of a conversation I had at church on Sunday. A woman in my church who lives right behind the youth center came up to me to share how grateful she was for our Teen Haven youth. After the nasty storm on Valentine's Day, she wasn't sure when she would ever get her car free from the piles of ice and snow that the snowplows had buried her car behind. As she was beginning what she thought would be an interminable process, some young men from the youth center came to her rescue. They took over the work and stayed until her car was completely free. What a testimony of love and neighborly concern.
- Snow provides a visible reminder of God's creativity and power, and an opportunity for us to demonstrate his loving concern to our neighbors (if we'll only take advantage of it).
-Jack Crowley, Teen Haven
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Least of these, Study pt 4
What happens when we respond?
- Acts 2:43-47
- Why do we worry so much about revival and filling our pews and yet neglect those outside the doors of our churches in the communities that God has placed us in. Why do we drive for miles to find the perfect church so we can get in, get our worship on, and get out, without ever having to engage the people around us … including our neighbors? Oooops, sorry. I didn't mean we, I meant why do I!
- Let’s see, people devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, communion, and prayer – and the church grew. People ministered to the needs (without shooting the wounded) of the poor in their midst – and the church grew. Evangelism occurred as people noticed a faithful response by God’s people to God’s people – and the church grew. Hmmmm, I wonder … what might happen if I was that devoted to God and my brethren? What about you? Just a thought…..
- Father, may your Spirit challenge me to be devoted in all areas of my life and relationship with you – that your kingdom would be glorified and grow because of the heart and relationships among your people… In Jesus’ name … Amen.
Friday, February 16, 2007
Least of these, Study pt 3
Continuing to look at what the Bible has to say about responding to people in need...
What is a faithful response?
- James 2:14-18; Is my faith evidenced by how I live my life? Is it evidenced in my interactions with my children? My co-workers? My brothers and sisters at Crossroads Mennonite Church?
- Is my faith evidenced in my interactions with those who come to me with need? Do I send them away, hungry and confused, until they get this i dotted or t crossed? Have I regulated away the need to meet the physical needs of those in our community?
- How do I handle the unexpected phone call, the interruption into my quiet night or trip to the store? Does my faith shine through then? Or does it only shine through when I am “on the clock” and have my ministry face on (and is that really shining?) ?
- Father, Let your love and my faith be the evidence of my life and intentions as I serve joyfully and gratefully for all you have done for me… In Christ’s name … Amen.
-Rick Rutter, formerly Director of Outreach Ministries
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Snow Day
When I was a kid, I loved snow days. Waking up in the morning to a blanket of snow sent us running to the radio to find out if school was in session that day. What a delight it was if we found out school was cancelled! A snow day meant an unexpected holiday from the normal activities in life. Okay, I admit, as a child I certainly didn’t realize the amount of extra work it created for my parents just to do the normal things that needed done on the family farm. For me and my brothers and sisters, it was a holiday from school and a day to romp and play in the big white world outside. Sledding, building snowmen, snowball fights, snow angels, etc. were just part of the fun. Life pretty much ground to a halt.
As a young adult I realized all that snow meant shoveling driveways and walks in freezing temperatures, and suddenly snow days weren’t quite as much fun. And most adults still had to drive to work in all that miserable stuff. But as a teacher there was still a certain amount of excitement to waking up to an early morning phone call and hearing the words, “no school today” by the caller on the other end of the line. Snow days meant an unexpected vacation day. They were totally “free” days. They were different from the scheduled days off – those days were filled with appointments and all the things I couldn’t do during my regular work hours. Snow days were different – there was a whole day to do just what I wanted (once the driveway and walks were shoveled, of course). I could curl up and read a good book, bake cookies, play a game, put a puzzle together, or get out that long awaited craft project without worrying about the work that wasn’t getting done!
Oh, how things have changed. Now my day starts at 5 in the morning as I get up, listen to the weather forecast and check what the other schools in
However, I can’t help but wonder if this ability to keep on going is all for the best. If a snowstorm can’t make us stop, slow down, and take the day off to rest and play, what does? We live in a work driven society. Our lives are constantly on the move. Do we ever take a “snow day”? Is there such a thing as a holiday? What about the Sabbath? While I’m not suggesting that things come to a grinding halt every time it snows, perhaps we should count this snow as God’s quiet nudge to take a moment to rest and reflect on His Goodness. At least for a minute before we check our email and answer the phone.
-Lorraine Brandt, Wonder Club School
ps- the picture above is not from Lancaster (its from Newfoundland)
Monday, February 12, 2007
Being nice vs. being helpful
As a recovering drug addict I can say that “niceness” almost killed me. People didn’t want to hurt my feelings or let me experience the consequences of my actions because that seemed too harsh.
The world is full of people who think that being “nice” is being helpful. I used to think this behavior was well motivated naiveté. As I grow older I am seeing that it isn’t well motivated at all –it’s selfish. People are more interested in avoiding conflict than actually helping.
Addiction is a resolvable condition, but it will not be achieved through being “nice”. It only gets resolved through relentless accountability (tough love); and that’s not “nice”.
Practicing addicts are masters at evading what could help them. They will use everything at their disposal to maintain their self-centered lifestyle: family, children, physical conditions… “Nice” people often unwittingly assist them in their evasion. Pulling out of the steep dive of addiction requires very specific, hard work, and addicted people shrink from that hardship. And “nice” people let them.
All too often, I get phone calls from people (even from within the mission) who cannot understand how we could be so unkind to person x. “As a Christian organization you should…” they say.
What I needed, and finally got, in my addiction were people willing to walk away from me if I didn’t accept help. I called my pastor for help once when I was on the streets in Portland, Oregon. He said, “Aaron I can’t give you what you want. You need to experience the consequences of your decisions. When you improve your choices, your life will improve.”
That man knew how to help and for a long time after I hated him for it. I love him today.
- Aaron Eggers, Men’s Ministries
The world is full of people who think that being “nice” is being helpful. I used to think this behavior was well motivated naiveté. As I grow older I am seeing that it isn’t well motivated at all –it’s selfish. People are more interested in avoiding conflict than actually helping.
Addiction is a resolvable condition, but it will not be achieved through being “nice”. It only gets resolved through relentless accountability (tough love); and that’s not “nice”.
Practicing addicts are masters at evading what could help them. They will use everything at their disposal to maintain their self-centered lifestyle: family, children, physical conditions… “Nice” people often unwittingly assist them in their evasion. Pulling out of the steep dive of addiction requires very specific, hard work, and addicted people shrink from that hardship. And “nice” people let them.
All too often, I get phone calls from people (even from within the mission) who cannot understand how we could be so unkind to person x. “As a Christian organization you should…” they say.
What I needed, and finally got, in my addiction were people willing to walk away from me if I didn’t accept help. I called my pastor for help once when I was on the streets in Portland, Oregon. He said, “Aaron I can’t give you what you want. You need to experience the consequences of your decisions. When you improve your choices, your life will improve.”
That man knew how to help and for a long time after I hated him for it. I love him today.
- Aaron Eggers, Men’s Ministries
Friday, February 09, 2007
Mental illness and homelessness
John[1] spent most of lunchtime walking back and forth in front of the serving line. Attempts to engage him in conversation were met with a smile and silence. And as he paced he was observed speaking under his breath and laughing to himself. Clearly, he was not interested in engaging others nor did he notice the things happening around him.
Some of our residents hear and see things that others do not. Some are crippled with intense feelings of sadness. Still others have an incredibly difficult time getting along with peers and family. For many different reasons these residents, many who have been diagnosed with some form of mental disability, find their way to the Rescue Mission and provide a unique challenge as we attempt to get them the care they need.
Jesus offers us hope, peace and rest. He says in Matthew 11:28, “"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest”. Our resident friend, John was not experiencing this rest that Jesus offers. And as we thought of John in light of Jesus’ statement we were forced to ask ourselves several questions:
How do we connect with someone who doesn’t necessarily see the need to connect?
How do we build trust with another who finds it difficult to trust?
And how do we get help to someone who doesn’t believe they need help?
We will pray with and for him. We will give him the support that a consistent schedule, a regular diet and times of rest offer. We will assess his needs. We will find out where he’s been and where he needs to go. We will evaluate his medical issues. We will carefully listen to his concerns. We will connect him with other service providers who can assist in his care. And we will do this in a way that values him as a person and operates in his best interest. And hopefully as he grapples with the confusion that mental illness brings he will know that he is of inestimable worth.
-Steve Brubaker, Residential Ministries
[1] Not his real name.
Some of our residents hear and see things that others do not. Some are crippled with intense feelings of sadness. Still others have an incredibly difficult time getting along with peers and family. For many different reasons these residents, many who have been diagnosed with some form of mental disability, find their way to the Rescue Mission and provide a unique challenge as we attempt to get them the care they need.
Jesus offers us hope, peace and rest. He says in Matthew 11:28, “"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest”. Our resident friend, John was not experiencing this rest that Jesus offers. And as we thought of John in light of Jesus’ statement we were forced to ask ourselves several questions:
How do we connect with someone who doesn’t necessarily see the need to connect?
How do we build trust with another who finds it difficult to trust?
And how do we get help to someone who doesn’t believe they need help?
We will pray with and for him. We will give him the support that a consistent schedule, a regular diet and times of rest offer. We will assess his needs. We will find out where he’s been and where he needs to go. We will evaluate his medical issues. We will carefully listen to his concerns. We will connect him with other service providers who can assist in his care. And we will do this in a way that values him as a person and operates in his best interest. And hopefully as he grapples with the confusion that mental illness brings he will know that he is of inestimable worth.
-Steve Brubaker, Residential Ministries
[1] Not his real name.
Monday, February 05, 2007
Praying for Chutes and Ladders
Carissa and I were in the middle of an intense game of Chutes and Ladders yesterday, and suddenly she realized that her Zoe game piece (we have the Sesame Street edition of the game) was in a precarious position. Although she was way ahead of her daddy (Big Bird), Zoe had a 2 out of 6 chance of landing on a chute with her next spin (which would drop her way back on the game board).
Suddenly, Carissa paused, turned slightly away from me, closed her eyes and grasped her hands together."Dear God, please let me get a 4, OK, please let me get a 4, alright."Wouldn't you know she spun the wheel and got a four. After a quick shout of joy and a "Thanks, God," we continued to play.
Now, as cute as this was, this whole situation left me a little perplexed. When I took the time to think about it, so many thoughts have been running through my mind.
Suddenly, Carissa paused, turned slightly away from me, closed her eyes and grasped her hands together."Dear God, please let me get a 4, OK, please let me get a 4, alright."Wouldn't you know she spun the wheel and got a four. After a quick shout of joy and a "Thanks, God," we continued to play.
Now, as cute as this was, this whole situation left me a little perplexed. When I took the time to think about it, so many thoughts have been running through my mind.
- We have never really talked about praying for help in sports or games, and never really demonstrated this behavior, so where did Carissa pick it up?
- Is this a good thing for Carissa to do? Should we encourage her to think about God as an actively interested party in her board game play (and later with sports, etc)?
- I've always struggled with imagining that God cared a whole lot about the winners of athletic and other contests (even the Super Bowl), let alone Candyland or Chutes and Ladders. At the same time, I claim to believe in a God that cares about the smallest details of my life and my children's lives.
- To see Carissa model this level of dependence on God and trust that He cares is a humbling example to me... are there things that I consider too trivial to bring before God that he wishes I was humble enough to take to Him?
Maybe I'm thinking too much (OK, I know I am), but it is important to me that I raise up my daughters with a right understanding of who God is, and understanding that He is not some genie in a bottle waiting to grant our every wish and whim.
Most importantly, I got to see yesterday that my 5 year old daughter thinks about God as a friend who can help her and cares about what is important to her. Maybe she has as much to teach me about God as I do her.
-Jack Crowley, Teen Haven
Friday, February 02, 2007
Family traditions at camp
It's great to see how God can impact entire families through camp ministry, both as campers and servants...
- Steven Jr. (15) - I had an opportunity to sit down and chat with a young man that has been part of the ministry since his diaper stage. Steve is walking in the steps of his dad. Steve White Sr. came years ago as a camper and developed into a supervisor. He came to know his wife through the ministry and started to take on the responsibilities of a husband, father and servant of Christ. When Steven Jr. came along he started to follow his dad’s steps in serving the Lord at camp. Steven senior ministers during older guys weekends in programs, prize presentation and teaching Scripture. As he serves the kids, Steve Jr. serves in the kitchen and as an assistant cabin supervisor. Like father like son!
- Andy & Andrew (15) - Andy came to us years ago as a camper and developed a love for the kids and a hearts desire to serve the Lord. He has married and has a son and daughter. When the opportunity comes, he takes great pleasure in joining us to serve our kids. This past weekend Andy served with his son as his assistant. What a powerful team and great witness to the campers as they see the joy of a father and son serving the Lord.
- Husband & Wife Team - This past girls weekend, it was very special to see our newly weds serve together. Rodney in the kitchen and his bride, JoAnne, supervising a cabin of young ladies. A powerful witness for our female campers. The joy of marriage and serving the Lord together.
-Vinny Mikusow, Teen Haven Camp
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Least of these, Study pt 2
What is a righteous response?
- Ezekial 18:5-9; Not helping the poor is the same as oppressing them. When I do not oppress the poor I will not hesitate to “give bread to the hungry and cover the naked with clothing.” Oppressing the poor and needy is equated with (v 11-13) defiling my neighbor's wife, committing robbery, idol worship, and usury. The result of which is… death. Seems to me God’s righteousness requirement for me is to respond “fairly.”
- How do I respond fairly when the needs are so great, stories are exaggerated, and the faces of the poor coming for assistance never seem to change? By executing true justice – not man’s justice – but a justice that provides for love, mercy, and grace – equipping and encouraging people through relationships that (v23), rather than taking pleasure in the circumstances and death of the wicked, that they might turn and live. But in order for that to happen I must “Therefore, repent and live” (V32).
- Father, forgive the callousness of my heart and may your justice and righteousness guide my steps and guard my heart in all my relationships … for Christ’s glory, Amen.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Considering the "least of these"
Our Outreach Ministries Director, Rick Rutter, recently left Water Street to begin a new adventure as a small business owner (Quick shameless plug: When you just gotta have a quality cheesesteak, sub, or wrap visit Bubba's Breakaway on Lincoln Highway East).
Before departing, Rick helped us develop a new strategy for how we can do our Outreach Ministries (providing food, clothing, and furniture to families and individuals in need) in a compassionate and empowering manner. He also laid the groundwork for future partnerships with churches and other agencies so that we can serve the community together in a way that builds the kingdom. Part of his process in developing this strategy was taking time to think about, study, and discuss with others issues related to poverty, the poor, and what a biblical response to those in need really looks like.
Before he just tells us all the answers (just kidding), we thought some of you might want to wrestle with some of these questions yourself. Rick has organized some of his thoughts and questions in a semi-devotional format. We'll be posting it here in 5 parts over the next few weeks. If you're up for a challenging exercise, give these studies a try. Here's #1:
How do I see the poor?
Polar opposites in Scripture include:
Before departing, Rick helped us develop a new strategy for how we can do our Outreach Ministries (providing food, clothing, and furniture to families and individuals in need) in a compassionate and empowering manner. He also laid the groundwork for future partnerships with churches and other agencies so that we can serve the community together in a way that builds the kingdom. Part of his process in developing this strategy was taking time to think about, study, and discuss with others issues related to poverty, the poor, and what a biblical response to those in need really looks like.
Before he just tells us all the answers (just kidding), we thought some of you might want to wrestle with some of these questions yourself. Rick has organized some of his thoughts and questions in a semi-devotional format. We'll be posting it here in 5 parts over the next few weeks. If you're up for a challenging exercise, give these studies a try. Here's #1:
How do I see the poor?
Polar opposites in Scripture include:
- Job 16:1-5, 10-11; How do I respond to another in crisis? Empty words? Lip service in the name of encouragement – remember that the friends started out with good intentions. Blaming others for their circumstances? Judgmental and condemning? Do I make the poor feel defensive? Do I make them feel even more guilt and shame than they probably feel coming to me for help in the first place? Have I replaced (or am I doing) Satan’s work in eroding another’s confidence and moving them further from the kingdom of God?
- Luke 7:36-50; Am I so certain of my own poverty, my own sinfulness, and my own need for forgiveness that I respond out of humility and love? Do I embrace others as true co-heirs (or potential co-heirs) created in the Imagio Deo – the very same image of the very same God who loves them the very same that He died the very same death to spend the very same eternity with us?
- Pharisee or forgiven, condemning or consoling, executioner or encourager? How will I see the poor today?
- Father, remove the scales from my eyes and turn my heart of stone to a heart of flesh that I might see and be Jesus today to the people that you bring across my path… Amen
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
He's in it all
We often remind clients that God is aware and a part of everything in our lives. We cannot hide from Him, nor do we ever take Him by surprise. We are continually reminded of this fact when God shows up in the little things of life.
Several years ago, as I prepared for a missions trip (teaching English in Macedonia), I realized that I did not own a dependable, trustworthy camera. As I am not a world traveler or a skilled photographer, and because this trip marked a turning point in my life as well as one of my most exciting adventures, I wanted to be sure I had a reliable camera with which to record my memories.
One of the other things I am not (in addition to world traveler/photographer) is a yard sale enthusiast. This is not because I have any aversions to used items. In fact, one of my most prized possessions came from the dumpster behind Water Street Rescue Mission’s Thrift Store. No, distancing myself from yard sales stems from the abundant accumulation of “things” (qualified “yard saleable” stuff) left in my home by my three children and six grandchildren - all provided free of charge! However, as I prepared for the Macedonia trip, I ventured to a neighborhood yard sale – in my own neighborhood -where I found a Kodak 35mm camera (with tattered case) for only $5. When my neighbor heard I was headed for Macedonia, she offered the camera at the reduced price of $2.50. As a result, my Kodak and I preserved some wonderful memories from both Macedonia and Vienna.
Somehow that leads me to Christmas. You see, last year, my son and grandson woke up at 4 a.m. on black Friday to camp out in the Mall parking lot so they could purchase a digital camera at a great price for my Christmas gift. Since that time, my trusty Kodak has laid idle in a dining room cupboard. This year at Christmas, my children and I were all snapping photos with our digital cameras. My son and grandson, who had just returned from a weekend-before-Christmas trip to St. Louis (for a pro-football game) wanted to share the pictures taken on their trip by downloading them onto my daughter’s lap top. And so he said, “Mom, where is the computer cord for your camera?”
After the hustle and bustle of the holidays had ended, and the house guests had gone home, I began to think about the photos I had taken and needed to download to my home computer. As I searched for my camera computer cord, my son’s words echoed in my ear. At my next opportunity, I asked my daughter if she recalled where that cord had been placed after they used it. She confidently stated that she had given it to one of the grandchildren to put away. Several phone calls later and still no cord, I was pretty much resigned to purchasing a new one.
About that time, a friend invited me to a birthday party for her 10-year-old daughter. Although I couldn’t attend the party, I purchased a gift for her – a scrap-booking kit which had been reduced from a price I could not afford to one I could easily afford. Pleased with my purchase, I wrapped the gift to present Sunday morning when I picked the family up for church. I was, however, bothered by the fact that this family had no camera and couldn’t afford one for the child. During my Sunday morning devotions, I was reminded of the old Kodak in the cabinet and strongly felt I should give it to the child. When I opened the case to check the batteries and film, out popped the missing camera cord.
Had I not been prompted to give that camera away, the missing cord may have remained hidden for who knows how long. It could even have eventually been discarded. Now, not only was my gift complete, but the rightness of passing on the camera He provided for my trip was confirmed. This was just another reminder of how many times each day I need to acknowledge the reality of His presence in all things big and small in my life.
Vicki Bollman, Women’s Ministry
Several years ago, as I prepared for a missions trip (teaching English in Macedonia), I realized that I did not own a dependable, trustworthy camera. As I am not a world traveler or a skilled photographer, and because this trip marked a turning point in my life as well as one of my most exciting adventures, I wanted to be sure I had a reliable camera with which to record my memories.
One of the other things I am not (in addition to world traveler/photographer) is a yard sale enthusiast. This is not because I have any aversions to used items. In fact, one of my most prized possessions came from the dumpster behind Water Street Rescue Mission’s Thrift Store. No, distancing myself from yard sales stems from the abundant accumulation of “things” (qualified “yard saleable” stuff) left in my home by my three children and six grandchildren - all provided free of charge! However, as I prepared for the Macedonia trip, I ventured to a neighborhood yard sale – in my own neighborhood -where I found a Kodak 35mm camera (with tattered case) for only $5. When my neighbor heard I was headed for Macedonia, she offered the camera at the reduced price of $2.50. As a result, my Kodak and I preserved some wonderful memories from both Macedonia and Vienna.
Somehow that leads me to Christmas. You see, last year, my son and grandson woke up at 4 a.m. on black Friday to camp out in the Mall parking lot so they could purchase a digital camera at a great price for my Christmas gift. Since that time, my trusty Kodak has laid idle in a dining room cupboard. This year at Christmas, my children and I were all snapping photos with our digital cameras. My son and grandson, who had just returned from a weekend-before-Christmas trip to St. Louis (for a pro-football game) wanted to share the pictures taken on their trip by downloading them onto my daughter’s lap top. And so he said, “Mom, where is the computer cord for your camera?”
After the hustle and bustle of the holidays had ended, and the house guests had gone home, I began to think about the photos I had taken and needed to download to my home computer. As I searched for my camera computer cord, my son’s words echoed in my ear. At my next opportunity, I asked my daughter if she recalled where that cord had been placed after they used it. She confidently stated that she had given it to one of the grandchildren to put away. Several phone calls later and still no cord, I was pretty much resigned to purchasing a new one.
About that time, a friend invited me to a birthday party for her 10-year-old daughter. Although I couldn’t attend the party, I purchased a gift for her – a scrap-booking kit which had been reduced from a price I could not afford to one I could easily afford. Pleased with my purchase, I wrapped the gift to present Sunday morning when I picked the family up for church. I was, however, bothered by the fact that this family had no camera and couldn’t afford one for the child. During my Sunday morning devotions, I was reminded of the old Kodak in the cabinet and strongly felt I should give it to the child. When I opened the case to check the batteries and film, out popped the missing camera cord.
Had I not been prompted to give that camera away, the missing cord may have remained hidden for who knows how long. It could even have eventually been discarded. Now, not only was my gift complete, but the rightness of passing on the camera He provided for my trip was confirmed. This was just another reminder of how many times each day I need to acknowledge the reality of His presence in all things big and small in my life.
Vicki Bollman, Women’s Ministry
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Challenges
As the Volunteer Coordinator, I find that I am constantly being challenged… Challenged in my faith. As part of the application process, prospective volunteers need to provide me with references. It is so encouraging and challenging to hear what these references have to say about the prospective volunteer.
I called a reference for one prospective volunteer. My first question to the reference was how she knew the prospective volunteer. She then described that they were neighbors. And more than that, they prayed together, watched each other’s children, and were great friends.
I was challenged by that conversation. After all, I moved into a new neighborhood half a year ago and have had only a couple of conversations with my neighbors. Never have I prayed with my neighbors. I would not be able to list one of my neighbors as a reference as this prospective volunteer did.
I am often challenged in other conversations with references when I ask the questions “Is ________ a Christian? How do you know?” The “how do you know” question is where I really am challenged. I get answers like, “because they keep their temper in difficult circumstances”, “they want to know and follow God’s will in every situation”, “by how they treat their family”, “they have such a concern for those who don’t know Jesus”…
I have to ask myself what people would say if they were asked how they know that I am a Christian. I hope they would know that I am a Christian! I hope that God is evident in my life. But I know that all too often I do not resemble Jesus at all.
God, thank you for these challenges that you have built into my job. Help me – help us – to live and act as your children.
- Carissa Martin, Volunteer Coordinator
I called a reference for one prospective volunteer. My first question to the reference was how she knew the prospective volunteer. She then described that they were neighbors. And more than that, they prayed together, watched each other’s children, and were great friends.
I was challenged by that conversation. After all, I moved into a new neighborhood half a year ago and have had only a couple of conversations with my neighbors. Never have I prayed with my neighbors. I would not be able to list one of my neighbors as a reference as this prospective volunteer did.
I am often challenged in other conversations with references when I ask the questions “Is ________ a Christian? How do you know?” The “how do you know” question is where I really am challenged. I get answers like, “because they keep their temper in difficult circumstances”, “they want to know and follow God’s will in every situation”, “by how they treat their family”, “they have such a concern for those who don’t know Jesus”…
I have to ask myself what people would say if they were asked how they know that I am a Christian. I hope they would know that I am a Christian! I hope that God is evident in my life. But I know that all too often I do not resemble Jesus at all.
God, thank you for these challenges that you have built into my job. Help me – help us – to live and act as your children.
- Carissa Martin, Volunteer Coordinator
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