Under the Bridge

Billy, Janet, JD, Tecca, Hammer, Phil & Barbara

Thursday, September 10, 2009, spending some time with the homeless peeps that hang out downtown. We saw some familiar faces that hadn't been with us for a while. Phil was there and Janet too, Hammer was there after not seeing him last week.



We haven't seen Chris for a while now and Josh wasn't there either.



Each of these people have become like family and we worry, care and pray for them because they are family. Please pray for Marleen's sobriety, she's been sober for about 4 weeks now. Pray for Janet who recently was a victim of a horrible crime. Pray for Hammer, each week, he seems to sink a little lower as he spends his life on the street. Pray that Chris and Josh are safe.



Over the last several weeks there seems to be a growning number of folks that we are serving, we pray that all these peoples needs are met, that they see Jesus through this outreach and find the strength to reach out for help and take steps in the right direction.

Thursday Aug 27, What a great day I had serving it up with you all in downtown BR. God's hand was all over it. If anyone lacks the desire to serve, just read our story "SERVOLUTION". This will get you pumped and motivated. The staff of HPC and it's volunteers are awesome. The blessing and opportunity afforded me this day has opened my eyes to a whole new world. A place where people must surely feel forgotten, marginalized, downtrodden.... While standing below the interstate bridge serving the homeless, the constant noise of the overhead traffic easily gives one the sense that life is passing by without a thought that this world exists underneath. I've crossed this bridge many times throughout my lifetime and never once did I consider the possibility, Lord forgive me! Addictions, mental illness, bad choices... Some have names, some are just faces, but all are somebody and are loved by God.

One particular guy, Josh, is trying to return to society after five years in prison. He was released two weeks ago and landed a job at a nearby fast-food place within the first week of getting out. The only acceptable pair of pants he can use for work were the ones he had on. He washes them every few days at a nearby fountain. The same fountain serves as his bathing facility. He did say that in prison he could at least practice good hygiene. After eating breakfast, he indicated that he had to walk several miles and start work by 10:00. A follow-up contact was made later in the day at his place of employment and some of his clothing needs were met. Because of his desire to be off the street, with a little help and encouragement, Josh will make it.

My prayer is that I'll allow God to use me whenever and wherever.

Yours in Christ, Bruce