Since getting back from Africa, I have been a little negligent on my blogging. These last few weeks have been a bit of regrouping time for me, and I am slowly getting my thoughts untangled.
A few weeks ago, we began setting a large cooler of ice water and styrofoam cups outside on our parking lot every Sunday as we meet. The cooler has a sign that says “Cold water compliments of Jesus Christ.” As we’ve watched people these last few weeks, we’ve begun to see a greater significance of in the offering of water. The water has come to represent the livng water that Christ offers each of us. Some in our ministry neighborhood gladly receive the water, while others stand and stare at the cooler…an inner battle as to whether or not they will draw from it. Today, I watched as women spent nearly 2 minutes walking back and forth in front of the cooler with a war raging deep within her…would she take a drink or wouldn’t she? As we battle for the souls of men and women, we realize that this cooler represents the greater truth of our ministry…using a simple cup of water to introduce the thirsty to the living water that leaves them permanently satisfied.
Today was also a joy for me, as we went to McAllen this afternoon to meet up with some old friends who were in the region on a mission trip. We have known Mark and Shannon for about 11 or so years now. They were in a Sunday School class that I taught in Dodge City, Kansas prior to surrendering to the ministry. I could see God’s hand on Mark even then, and I told his wife that he would be in the ministry before it was all over. Little did I know I would beat him there. It has been fun watching him grow in the Lord. We celebrated his first pastorate and his ordination. I now find myself spurring him on in his quest to be all that God has created him to be. I’m thankful that the relationships in the kingdom are not bound by time and distance.
This past Thursday as we were having our Organic Group, we saw the woman who we had taken in off the streets walking past the church. She stopped and began to cross the street towards us, but suddenly stopped and turned the other way. I believe God allowed her to experience something in those few days with us, that is unlike anything she has ever experienced; however, the battle for her soul continues to rage. I know that in due time, God will push back the darkness that blinds her, I hope that day is sooner than later.