Blog: Day 4 begins- Monday Oct. 14
Yesterday at different times, two homeless men showed up at my doorstep. Trenton was riding a bike and had a pair of jeans and a shirt wrapped around his handle bars. He was clean shaven and wore a huge smile. At first he asked me what we were doing and I told him how we were sleeping out here to raise awareness about families in substandard housing; that we are a home repair ministry using volunteers to work with families to make those repairs. He told me he has a background in framing but where he used to work is not too far for him to ride his bike. Furthermore, he shared that he did not have a place to stay right now and was living at the laundry matt but had an offer on an apartment. He rode off for a bit but then returned shortly. Shyly and with caution he asked me if I could do him a favor. He needed about $6-7 to go to Burger King to get something to eat and the rest to wash his few clothes.
Those are such awkward moments. I had just counted out a large bit of cash from our collection, had some money in my car, but was not sure quite what to do. The food part was simple-I had plenty and gave him a large portion of breakfast casserole and some Panera bagels. Giving cash is something I do cautiously but he had offered to pay it back the following day. With a little hesitation I gave him $4-really not worried if I get if back but realizing it is important for him to carry that through.
I’ll see what the day holds. Sunday night was quiet and I enjoyed worshipping with the Wesley students. It was more of a time of testimonials when we have done something “stupid” even in our Christianity. Usually it means some form of judgment or being condescending to someone. As I thought through, I realized I could compose a short book on all the stupid things I had done in the name of faith.
Our total this morning is just over $14,000. Hoping to reach $20,000 by tonight’s end. Again, pass this on to those who may be passionate about ending poverty housing in Alabama and serving our neighbors with love and grace! go to www.arm-al.org and click on the Donate Now button.
Here’s a short video from day 3 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DboDxBmEXZs
Grace and peace,
lisa
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