Experiences in Outreach

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Prayer Amidst The Chaos

We just finished our annual Thanksgiving feast with the poor and homeless at the weekly food distribution and I am feeling quite drained but I'm sure not nearly as drained as the wonderful volunteers who purchased, prepared and served the food. I didn't count, but by my estimate the number was well over 100. This many being served and trying to find a seat in a small area can be quite chaotic and overwhelming at times.

While I was standing behind the servers watching the people get there food, a young lady who comes just about every week came up to me and asked if I would pray for her 4 month old baby who had been sick for quite some time with chest congestion. After discussing the situation with her for a while she pulled out a picture of "Junior" to show me what he looks like. As I sit at my desk and write this blog, I am looking at the picture propped up on my computer monitor. It is there because I told her I would pray for him every day and she gave me the picture as a reminder. After she gave me the picture, I held her close to me, head on my chest and I prayed for her sons healing and her comfort through the Holy Spirit.

Any one in the room could have prayed for "Junior" but she picked me, "the minister". I have been in my role for over seven years now and I still have a hard time getting used to the fact that so many that I minister to believe I have some special connection with God and that for some reason He pays more attention when I pray. A pretty overwhelming thought considering all the blemishes myself and others see in me.