Digging through a dumpster; pray for mercy

After church this morning, Martha and I went to the LIA warehouse to get a homeless man some camping gear (cot, air mattresses, blankets, food, etc.). As we pulled up to the warehouse we noticed two men digging through our dumpster. We knew this was a good opportunity help them.

They had found some old worn out clothes we had thrown away (our philosophy is if we wouldn't wear them, we won't give them away. You would be surprised at some of the clothes that are donated.) I asked them if they would like to come inside and get some good clothes. They were delighted at the offer.

We showed them the clothes and told them whatever they needed they could have. People are usually surprised when we tell them the clothes are free. Many ministries sell clothes to help support their ministries. That's fine, but we have always believed that God wants us to give everything away as a hand up to people who are struggling.

They picked out some pants and shirts and we gave them each a pair of boots, blankets, pillows and pillow cases, hygiene kits, socks, and food. Then I told them about our Tuesday nights Celebrate Recovery and Wednesday nights Bible study. They were very thankful and hopefully we will see them on Tuesday and Wednesday nights. What was cool was seeing them leave behind the junk they found in the dumpster and leaving with good items that will really be of help to them.

Because people donate items such as good clothing, we can help the homeless and the poor. Because people donate food, we can provide them food. Because people donate financially, we can purchase items that they need, such as hygiene items.

It takes all of us working together to help the homeless and poor and show them the love of Jesus Christ. Thanks to everyone who helps.

The opportunity to help those two men came immediately after an awesome sermon that guest speaker Bill Dorminey delivered at Harvest. It was a powerful one. He talked about how only 4 percent of Americans are actively involved in church. More say they are Christians, but only 4 percent are actively engaged in church. That's a sobering and unsettling statistic.

We, as Christians, must pray and ask God for forgiveness and for his mercy for us and our nation. We must be engaged with our churches. We must reach out to the lost and hurting. Jesus tells us,"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 28:19). We, as the Body of Christ must heed what Jesus tells us.

Let's be sure to pray for this nation and ask God for mercy and to send a real revival. With your help, we are reaching the homeless, the poor ... those who are on the fringe of society. God is doing a great work. Please continue to support Love In Action with your prayers, volunteering your time, donating needed items and finances.

God is dealing with us on what we need to accomplish in 2010. We are continuing to pray and seek God's direction. I will be sharing that with you before this year is over.

Thank you for your support. Martha and I love and appreciate each of you.