Prayer...

I think prayer is one crazy thing. I have never really prayed that often, mainly because I hardly see it work. I know that sounds harsh, but it's true. I know I should pray and Courtney begs for us to pray as a married couple more than what we do. God wants a daily conversation with us and that occurs through prayer, but it doesn't have to be a bow your head, hands clasped, serious prayer...just a continuing conversation. I have become more aware of prayer lately especially after our wedding day. I try to pray everyday for Courtney, but it still doesn't feel like it should. I'm expecting something crazy to happen I think and I'm disappointed every time nothing happens. I think that God isn't listening to me at all, I'm just another rambling christian trying to do what I'm supposed to do. I wonder if God rolls his eyes? If he does, it'd be during my prayer time I think.

But not today... Our downtown ministry, the tailgate with our friends who happen to be homeless, was a success. Everyone ate plenty of spaghetti, salad, and bread. People were walking up to us around 5 pm and we still had food for them. Amazing. One thing I've noticed with this particular meal is they love to put ranch dressing over the spaghetti and salad. I don't get that, but they seem to love it.
But today was special because of PRAYER. One of our helpers, Lesley, came to me about half way through the day and said to grab Courtney or whoever because we were going to pray. I didn't hesitate but now as I type this I don't think it registered with me what we were doing until we stood around a gentleman named Thomas. Lesley explained to us that Thomas was heading to Black Mountain, NC for a 30 detox program. I don't know how he's getting there or for what addiction, I just know he's going after the 8th of this month. (Apparently he pulled Lesley aside, told his story, and asked for prayer.) So we all, Lesley, Dave, Courtney, Libby, a homeless friend who's name I don't know, myself, and Thomas prayed. I lead us to the best of my ability, meaning I tried my best to allow God to speak through me for Thomas. I rarely know or understand how God speaks, but He spoke today. There is not a better feeling than to lift a man who needs that much help to the Lord. It took courage for Thomas to ask for prayer from strangers and I'm glad we could provide a small ounce of what God provides. We left Thomas and continued to serve the others and the day ended quietly.

But my thoughts continue to evolve...Courtney, Libby, and myself would never of had this chance to pray if Lesley wouldn't have been willing to talk with people. We need these type of volunteers so we don't miss such special moments like this. I love that Lesley has no fear in talking with people she has nothing in common with. She doesn't allow fear to limit her and she shows these people Christ. I want that from all of us that go downtown. We all need to do a better job at stretching our friend's faith and bring them with us downtown. Our walk with the Lord isn't supposed to be fluffy bunnys all the time. I think we need to be daring and live out Christ to people who need it. I'd rather be daring in my faith and trust the Lord will protect Courtney and I than not dare at all. I refuse to be sheltered in suburban America....give me the gutter and streets anytime, at least I'll go to bed knowing I tried to live out authentic faith...