Homeless William always takes a snooze before dinner. During the night he sleeps on a side walk next to a building ( I have seen his spot) close to Truine and during the day he just walks around Greenville. He usually has a golf club or some type of walking stick which may be used for his protection. When we open the doors each Tuesday night, he heads for the most comfortable seat in the house. When Paul arrived, he commented that he hoped his message would wake him up. Unfortunately, he continued to sleep until the food was served. Last Tuesday, William and 68 other downtown friends received a hot meal with the assistance of 24 volunteers.Tonight Paul continued to teach from the book of James. In chapter 3, he focused on the power of the tongue. He emphasized that the tongue may be used in a negative or positive way. Our tendency is to use the tongue in a sinful way to inflict pain on others. However, the tongue can be used in a positive manner to provide a word of encouragement that will help others in need. Humility is necessary to use it wisely.
Usually after the meal, we minister to many of the homeless that have specific needs. Paul and others spend their time talking and praying with them. This is certainly a positive use of our tongue emphasized in the message tonight. Also, this week we provided a good supply of winter clothes for distribution. Every year as winter approaches there is a definite need for warmer clothes and blankets. One individual just asked for a piece of cardboard to sleep on. The only thing I could find was cake boxes which seemed to make him happy. When we received those types of requests, it is very clear how difficult it is to live on the street. Many get tired of the street life and request bus transportation out of town. We were happy last Tuesday to provide one individual with transportation to Florida where there are friends to help him. We try to help if we determine there is a genuine desire to get off the street. Sometimes this requires traveling to another city.
~Marc
