Lawlessness

I could talk about the constant verbal and physical abuse that some experienced last Tuesday night. But that could lead to the conclusion that this type of lawlessness was representative of the homeless community, which it is not. Sure we have times when there are disagreements between individuals, but it is not something that can not be resolved. I am reminded that this lawlessness is every where. My next door neighbor was robbed in her garage when she got home from work. I did not need to go downtown. I could have looked out the window for a lesson in lawlessness. Just watch the news on TV for another look at our society. The homeless are constantly on guard but we are not. They know for a fact that some resolve their differences with violence. We think everyone is basically a good person and we think it will never happen to us. But it does. The Bible teaches us that we are not good but bad. It is our nature so why would anyone be surprised that some would act up downtown. They act up everywhere. Laws can not change people’s hearts, only God can. That is why we go downtown. Not to feel good after feeding the homeless in a sterile environment. But to go downtown and preach the gospel which is only thing that will change a heart of a homeless person or a volunteer.
~Marc

Hungry Folks

We served 133 meals last Tuesday. I can’t remember serving this many meals in the past, other than Thanksgiving two years ago. It seems more and more people are in need. Fortunately, we continue to receive support from some wonderful volunteers. Not only those who show up, but some who prepare food in advance for us. One of our volunteers recently prepared meat loaf for over 100 meals. We added some chicken and vegetables with ice cream for dessert for a meal. Everyone said it was great. One individual told me, as he was leaving, that he had never had this much food at one time. He said that it was especially good for him because he had been hungry all day. We use food to make connections with people. If we can show some compassion for a hungry person then we have the opportunity to present the Gospel to all who have ears to hear.
~Marc

Big Crowd

None of us are sure of the numbers that will turn out on each Tuesday night. That means we come downtown not knowing how many homeless or volunteers will show up. Sometimes we get more than we can handle and other times we wonder where everyone has gone. Is there something happening on the street that is more appealing or is there something on the tube tonight? But this Tuesday everyone showed up. We had a capacity crowd from the street and local volunteers. There were so many volunteers that Paul had to conduct the volunteer prayer, before the service, in the hallway instead of the kitchen which is a much smaller area. But we consider this a blessing because many had the opportunity to minister to folks who are in need.

The total count for the night was close to 150 individuals. There were over a 100 plates served and many more prepared for take out. Many of the volunteers came from North Greenville University, Evangelical Institute, and East North Street Baptist along with our regular volunteers that show up every week. These numbers give everyone many opportunities to share the Gospel.
~Marc

Observation

Last week on Tuesday, I was talking with a volunteer that has not been downtown in a couple of years. That thing that really surprised him was the change in the demographices of the poor and homeless. Now the group is much younger which includes women (some even pregnant). He commented that when he was volunteering a few years ago that most of the homeless were middle age men. They consistently showed up every week and for the most part listened attentively to the preaching and were calm while eating their food. Now some become angry easily when being served regardless how patient the volunteers are. Usually they want specific food or two plates instead of one and can not understand why they can’t get what they want. We try to set some rules to make sure everyone gets something to eat. It is a different group to some degree and some are definitely not happy.

As I write this observation, I wonder how I would act if I was in their circumstances. I probably would be worse. We all expect things to go right for us and when they don’t we look for someone to blame. However, if the truth be known, we are responsible for many things that happen to us and it is hard to accept responsibility. So what is the answer? The same as it has always been. We need to be transformed by the Holy Spirit. That is what fuels us to go down every Tuesday and fellowship with the poor and homeless regardless of their behavior.

Last week we served 100 meals with the assistance of 24 volunteers.
~Marc

Reconciliation

He can be a little intimating, especially if he is under the influence. I always have to remind myself that God loves him and we should too. To have a private conversation is difficult but tonight he wanted to talk to me about his situation. He said he was tired of living this way. Last month he was fined for a nusiance charge which took about half of his disability check and now he was here trying to get some food. He said alcohol had him by the throat and demonstrated it by grabbing his throat. He said he knows he should trust in Jesus and I reminded him that he would also have to repent. I explained that it was more than just going a different direction but it was a change in desires. And the only way to accomplish that is by the Holy Spirit. Then you will have different desires and different friends. I told him how God has changed Paul in so many ways and immediately tears started rolling down his cheek and he said “I can’t let anyone see me like this”. As he wiped the tears away, another homeless showed up and started talking to him and his demeanor changed and he regained control of emotions. Something happened in that moment that turned his attention away from the spirit to the world. It was time to eat.

Paul is currently teaching a Bible study for the volunteers based on a book titled When Helping Hurts (short title) by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert. This discusses homelessness and poverty and how to alleviate them. To understand how to do that we have to understand what the universal problem is for them and us. The bottom line is reconciliation. Since the fall we are all separated from God. Reconciliation means to put things back into the right relationship again. That can only be accomplished through Jesus Christ. “The goal is to restore people (homeless or not) to a full expression of humanness to being what God created us all to be, people who glorify God by living in right relationship with God, with self, with others, and with the rest of creation” (page 78). This is a necessary first step to help others come out of poverty and addiction.

I would like to give a special thanks to all the GE employees who held a fund raiser last Friday night at Star Lanes Bowling. The money raised will be donated to Food for Life and another worthy charity. I was surprised how many people showed up for this event and it looked like everyone had a good time. Their goal was to raise $1,500.of which some of the funds will be used to purchase kitchen equipment for Triune Mercy Center. We are grateful for all of the volunteers who support Food for Life.
~Marc

Packed House

When Paul assembled all the volunteers in the kitchen for prayer, it was packed. There were so many volunteers that they flowed out into the hall. Closing the door for privacy was not an option tonight. Most were youth and adults from Simpsonville First Baptist Church and East North Street Baptist Church. It is always a pleasure to have local youth come out and assist us in ministering to the homeless

After the preaching, many of the youth set up a table of pictures as a way of sharing the gospel with the homeless. For instance, they asked them to pick out photographs that reflected their current situation and their interpretation of God. These questions lead to further discussions to consider. Even though many of the youth were very young, they were not intimidated dealing with the homeless.

In addition to unusual amount of volunteers, we had a packed house of homeless who had come to get out of the heat. We served 110 meals with the assistance of 32 volunteers.
~Marc

Hope for the Hopeless

Ministering to the homeless and poor can be rewarding and at the same time can be discouraging. It is rewarding when we see individuals get off the street and lead a productive life. Usually these kinds of folks are the ones we provide assistance on a weekly basis in the form of medication refills, gas for their car, phone cards, or a hot meal on Tuesday night. This takes care of some of their problems for that particular day. Other days they may rely on other ministries for their necessities. Many of these individuals are living in temporary shelters and some times are families with small children. They have hope.

Ministering can be discouraging when you see the over whelming abuse of alcohol. Last Tuesday we had a number of individuals who had been drinking and were either totally drunk, or in between drinks and just had the shakes. One individual told me that alcohol had stole his life. He said that alcohol is the first thing he thinks about when he wakes up on the street. It seems to be their medication for dealing with their situation and it just consumes them. Sure there are some who may use illegal drugs, but by far alcohol is the number one drug of choice for the homeless because it is cheap and legal. I always wonder what road these folks took to get where they are now. I am sure it was slowly one day at a time. Just having few drinks then over time finding out they could not do without a drink every day. Then from there to losing their jobs and then their families which mean they have no support. To climb out of that hole it must be done slowly through intensive therapy which many are not willing to do. Most just give up and accept their situation. We know that the Gospel can transform their lives through His Spirit. So that is our and their only hope. That is why we come down town every Tuesday night.

Tuesday night we served 95 hot meals with the assistance of 18 volunteers. We had some first time volunteers from Springwell Church in Greenville. As always, we had many of our faithful volunteers show up and work in the kitchens and spend time with the homeless. It definitely is their Ministry too.
~Marc

The Have & Have Not's

When we arrived last Tuesday there was a crowd of first time volunteers in the parking lot and an equal number of homeless at the side door waiting to get in out of the heat. I could not help to think that it appears that the volunteers are trying to keep their distance from the homeless. It is like the "the have" and "the have not's". I understand how they feel. When Paul started his ministry over 7 years ago, I felt very uncomfortable around the less fortunate. I didn't know if they would be violent or obnoxious, so I kept by distance. But over the years I have found that you are more likely to have a problem with some volunteers than the homeless. Most of them are grateful for what we provide and would not jeopardize that by acting up.

We did have a good group in the parking lot that eagerly attacked the responsibilities for preparing and serving the food. Without this group it would be impossible for other volunteers to devote their time ministering to the homeless. We had a first-time group from the Summitt Church in Greenville and a good representation from GE. As always, we can depend on a core group of faithful volunteers who come each week to specifically minister to the homeless. They spend the entire time talking, praying, and sharing the Gospel. They understand that this is our mission for coming to Triune Mercy Center each Tuesday night. This group was included in the 28 volunteers that ministered and served 110 folks last Tuesday. This is the largest crowd of homeless and volunteers we have had in a long time.
~Marc

Serving Volunteers

Last Tuesday Jerry, who is one of our volunteers, preached for Paul. He and his wife were celebrating their anniversary that night but were happy to minister to our friends downtown on this special occasion. He continued the study of James and accurately presented the Gospel for all in attendance. “Thanks Jerry” for filling in for Paul and for your faithfulness each Tuesday night. We are grateful for volunteers who not only serve but also minister to the needy each Tuesday night.

We continue to have many different folks who come each Tuesday night to serve. This Tuesday we had the Greenville Derby Dames show up to volunteer. They are a women’s Roller Derby team who raise money for charities. These gals had no trouble mingling with the homeless who at time can be rough around the edges. If you are interested in seeing them in action check out the video below.

Our numbers were down some this Tuesday. We served 77 meals with the assistance of 24 volunteers. One of our volunteers provided the dessert which was muffins and water melon. Hmmm Good.
~Marc

Our Volunteers

Last Tuesday Paul began by praying with the volunteers in the kitchen. Paul reminded them that our purpose is not to just feed people but to proclaim the Gospel. Every thing we do should be done with an attitude of prayer to reach the lost and this should start in the kitchen. We are all ministers of the Gospel.

Many of our volunteers come every week and not only volunteer their time but also contribute financially to the ministry. They put not only their heart and soul into reaching the homeless but also their finances. We are grateful for their donations which provide for the needs each Tuesday night. For instance, this Tuesday there was a need for medication. Bonnie went to the drug store during the preaching to purchase cream and pain medication for a burn. Also, a couple with a baby needed gas for their car. They are currently living at Miracle Hill and needed gas to get to work. Another individual needed funds to get in a program at the Donaldson Center that provides shelter and transportation to work. In addition, each week we have to purchase food to serve each Tuesday night. It is amazing that we seem to have just enough funds each week to meet the current needs. It would not be possible without the generous support from our volunteers and regular monthly supporters.

There was a big crowd this week. We served 95 hot meals including drink and dessert with the assistance of 24 volunteers. Many of the volunteers come from various churches and as always we had a good representation from General Electric.

~Marc

Volunteers that Minister

Last night we served 115 meals with the assistance of 14 volunteers. We were blessed again to have the youth from Brookwood Church come and serve. We appreciate their leader’s concern that their youth develop a desire to help the less fortunate. Many of us may take for granted our homes and families until we realize there are some that have neither. If we just spend time loving on those who don’t have those things, it will change them and us.

Another group of volunteers that come consistently each week are students from the Evangelical Institute of Greenville. They provide the music and also minister the Gospel to the homeless. They truly have a heart for the less fortunate. When Paul can not attend we can always depend on these students to continue the work of the ministry. Last Tuesday night one of the students, Lincoln, brought the message from Romans 6:10-18. It was a powerful message on sin and the need to totally surrender our lives to God through Jesus Christ. That is a message for everyone, homeless and volunteers.

Clearly, our numbers have been increasing over the last few weeks. Just 3 weeks ago we were only serving about 40 meals and now it is almost 3 times that amount. Many have theories about why the numbers vary so much, but I honestly can not figure it out. I know we constantly see new faces along with some of the regulars that come and go. Regardless, we are pleased to serve anyone and everyone. Please pray that God will always provide the resources to help these folks and that God will change their lives for eternity.
~Marc

God's Wisdom

What is wisdom? Does wisdom from God differ from the wisdom of this world? Last Tuesday night we were fortunate to have Jason (Paul’s brother) bring the message from the book of James. He continued to teach on verses 5 through 8 about wisdom. From the world’s point of view, knowledge and wisdom are closely related. However, knowledge and wisdom from God is very different. Real wisdom is more than the knowledge of God’s word. Jason gave an example of a friend that had lots of theological knowledge, but lived a life that did not reflect the wisdom of God which was evident by his life style. So how do we get God’s wisdom? In James, it simply says to ask God. But Jason pointed out in verse 5 that there are conditions. First we have to ask in faith not doubting the goodness of God. Also, God will freely give us wisdom in order to represent Him to the world. And finally, as someone pointed out in our discussion, God gives wisdom to develop a relationship with us. Wisdom must be used to glorify God and not for our selfish desires.

Every week, we see new faces. This week as we arrived, there was a lady dressed in western clothes in a motorized wheel chair waiting to get in. She rode in and found an electrical outlet to recharge her chair. After I brought in the food, I was surprised to find her walking around in the kitchen talking to the other volunteers. I guess the chair was her mode of transportation.

Another group of new faces were from Seacoast Church in Greenville. They were especially helpful washing all of the pots and pans. Most volunteers don’t gravitate to this job but they were willing to serve regardless of the task. They assisted 14 other volunteers to serve 68 hot meals on a very cold night. The numbers were down this week because most had probably found a warm place and were not willing to venture out in the cold.
~Marc

What is a Church?

What is a church? The dictionary states it is either “a building where religious services are performed” or “a group of people who follow the same Christian beliefs”. I wondered about this definition last Tuesday night because an individual left during Paul’s teaching mumbling on his cell phone “this better be important because I am in church”. This individual was not homeless or poor but he was attending the service right along side with all types of people; black and white, rich and poor, Christian and non-Christian, volunteers and non-volunteers, smart and not so smart. All types of people come downtown for various reasons. Sure there are some whose eyes glaze over when Paul teaches just waiting for “amen” so they can eat. But there are so many that take it seriously. They bring their Bibles and listen and expect to receive a greater knowledge of the Word of God. Also, they expect to share it with others downtown. Earlier, in Paul’s ministry, we would hear many homeless say that our ministry was their church. But Paul was always quick to say, that we do minister to individuals but we were not a church. He wanted to encourage everyone to become part of a local church where they could receive on going encouragement and accountability. This is very important. However, I know many who go to church and do not allow themselves to receive any accountability. So are we a church? We are in a building where religious services are performed and we are a body of believers who, each in his own way, ministers to others. We probably are not a church in the true sense of the word, but we are a type of a church who ministers by providing food, clothing and blankets, and preaching true Biblical principles and providing accountability for those who seek it.

An individual attended last Tuesday night who was instrumental in helping Paul begin his ministry by providing a location for his Bible Study. Paul had an idea to start this ministry in his house but this individual offered a downtown location free of charge. Good thing it was free because many nights no one showed up. But Paul told him that he could see the room filled with people listening and worshipping God. And within a year, that is exactly what happened. Even to the point that the fire marshal would not allow us to continue because there were too many people. Then through some downtown connections, Paul was allowed to continue at Triune Mercy Center. Again, it was free which allowed the ministry to continue to grow. As an example, last Tuesday night, we served 100 meals with the help of 24 volunteers which included a girls “fast pitch” softball team called the “Carolina Crush”. But in the beginning a good night was 4 or 5 people and Paul and his family were the volunteers. Now the volunteers come from local employers, all types of churches, homeschoolers, and even softball teams. It seems there are many who want to minister but don’t know how. We provide a venue to allow them to grow spiritually by ministering to others. And what is important, now there others that have that same vision that Paul had downtown 6 years ago; to see a room full of individuals listening to the Word and worshiping God.

Thanks to everyone who attended in 2008. Because of your compassion, Food for Life served 3,919 meals with assistance of 2,327 volunteer hours. I want to wish everyone a prosperous new year and look forward to 2009 to see what God will do in the lives of everyone who attends each Tuesday night. God Bless.
~Marc

Powerful Testimony

Another great Tuesday night at Triune Mercy Center; we served 85 hot meals with the assistance of 18 volunteers. Two of the volunteers are friends of ours who are missionaries from Alaska. They are in Greenville for the holidays and came down to help Paul. We appreciated their help and especially enjoyed visiting with them.

The highlight of the night was a testimony by a man who 6 months ago was on the street with his children. He testified how God has changed him and his family through the ministry of Food for Life. It was very powerful since many of the homeless knew him personally and could visibly see the impact of God’s grace through Jesus on his life. That is what we all desire for everyone each Tuesday night.

Next week we will meet on Monday night instead Tuesday. We changed the day in order for Paul to attend before he leaves on a trip to Colorado. We have been planning for a great Christmas feast and some gift surprises for all who attend. We are grateful for Adair who raised a considerable amount to fund our Christmas party. This time of year we enjoy getting together to not only experience the festive atmosphere but also to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Merry Christmas to all from Paul and Food for Life Ministries and may everyone have a happy new year.
~Marc

Yes We Can

I don't recommend any political party just because I use that slogan, but I do think it can be used to reflect Paul's determination to serve the homeless and poor in Greenville. When he started this ministry many thought he could not keep pace by serving every Tuesday night for any extended period of time. Especially, since the ministry is not afflilated with any organization to provide the necessary funds. But five years later, Food for Life Ministries is still going strong. God has blessed us by providing the donations just at the right time.

Also, we have been blessed for the last five years with volunteers that have faithfully served along side Paul and provided not only funds but also provided the many necessities for the homeless. One such volunteer started two weeks ago and got so excited that he and his wife spent all day Saturday purchasing items to distribute to the homeless. This last Tuesday, we had a blankets, clothes, and shoes for every person that attended.

I thought this is the first time that we were able to meet every need until a older homeless lady showed up with a special need. She asked for $3.00 to purchase adhesive for her false teeth. She definitely needed it. We gave her the money and she kissed Tony and I on the forehead. I asked Tony if he was going to tell his wife that he was kissed by a homeless woman. He said probably not. You never know what to expect each Tuesday.

Last Tuesday we served 85 hot meals with the assistance of 18 volunteers. We are fortunate to have so many individuals from different organization such as GE, colleges, and various churches in Greenville. Food for Life has always served and been served by so many people from different backgrounds. For that we are thankful every Tuesday night.
~Marc

Valuable Volunteers

I am constantly amazed at the level of participation by our volunteers. They come from different backgrounds, churches, and businesses. This week I wanted to highlight a group employed by General ELectric. One of the engineers organized a group of their employees to participate each Tuesday night serving the homeless and less fortunate in Greenville.

Many of the other volunteers not only serve on Tuesday nights but also during the week. One volunteer meets regularly with a couple of the homeless during the week for coffee. Another volunteer has spent many hours in the emergency room assisting the homeless with their medical needs. They all have shown that caring for those less fortunate is not just one day a week. Food for Life is fortunate to have those types of caring volunteers.

Last Tuesday was calm compared to the previous week. We served 108 hot meals with the assistance of 18 volunteers.

~Marc

Physical Needs

Many people we serve each Tuesday night are some of the poorest in Greenville. This couple is an example of those that come for something to eat and occasionally receive help with their personal needs. This week this lady explained that she had surgery and could not pay for her medications. Her husband does work as a tanner but as anyone might imagine has very little work in this field. Food for Life provided the medications she needed and the following week gave them some assistance with their utility bills.

Another concern was for someone who required transportation to the Emergency Room to enter detox. This is the only detoxification center available at night. When an individual decides to make that step, we try to provide the transportation to meet that need. Thanks to Danny, one our volunteers, for his concern and driving him to the hospital after we finished last Tuesday night.

Unfortunately, many of the problems we see can not be easily fixed with food and a ride to the hospital. Last Tuesday, a couple came in with a baby. One of our volunteers questioned them about their housing arrangements. They explained that they were living with a relative. However, another homeless man told us later that they were actually living in a large concrete pipe under a bridge. Naturally this caused great concern because a child was involved. Since we didn’t know for sure, one of our volunteers, Anthony, contacted a friend who was a policeman to check out this area to see if this couple was there with the child. Anthony stated he would not be able sleep at night without knowing that the child was safe.

We are thankful for all that serve each Tuesday night. With the help of 18 volunteers, we served over 100 hot meals. Also, Paul continued his study of Romans. We can not always meet every physical need but we can freely give spiritual food to everyone which is food for the soul for eternity.
~Marc

Sequence of Events

Most wonder what happens at a Homeless Ministry; so this week I thought I would give the sequence of events for each Tuesday night.

The volunteers arrive about 7:00pm. They park in the back of Triune Mercy Center and walk up the sidewalk and enter at the side of the building. Our services are conducted in what would be the fellowship hall for the church next to the kitchen. Many of the homeless come in as soon as the doors are opened. We prepare ice water for them to drink while we prepare the food. Paul usually coordinates with the kitchen on the time the food will be ready because the meal is served at the conclusion of the services. Each week we have music and Paul continues with the study of Romans. Everyone usually attends the services except for those who are preparing the meal in the kitchen. The following two short video clips will give you an idea how the services are conducted. The music video is a little dark because we had the lights off to read the overhead screen. At the conclusion, everyone gets in line for the serving of the meal.
The Music

The Preaching


Last Tuesday, we served 65 individual meals and prepared an additional 25 take outs. We had 18 volunteers of which 10 worked in the kitchen and the remaining spent their time talking and counseling the homeless during and after the meal. Later, all of the volunteers and some of the homeless help clean up before we leave. Also, during this time Paul and other volunteers are evaluating many of the homeless needs. Some one usually goes to the store to purchase various items for distribution. Last Tuesday we distributed blankets and a pair of shoes for a gentleman who was in flip flops.

We usually finish about 9:30pm. We encourage anyone who would like to volunteer to just show up each Tuesday night.
~Marc

Good Music and Food

Every week many show up tired and hungry. Some have not slept during the night but have spent their time walking in order to keep from being noticed. Others find a "cat hole" but don't sleep very soundly because there is always the risk of assault or someone stealing their possessions. So it is no wonder that many are not very friendly and are short tempered. But one thing that seems to soothe their nerves and take the focus off of their problems is music. Last Tuesday night we had a group that sang Praise and Worship music to the delight of everyone. I saw many, that usually can be a problem, tapping their feet or clapping their hands and it was all to the Glory of God. We are truly blessed when different groups show up to provide music before Paul teaches. There is usually less distractions because their moods seem to change. Just like every Tuesday night, we do not have a predetermined program to follow. We just allow God to send those we need.

Another event happened before our Tuesday night ministry that Paul had to address. It seems that our long time friend Eric was seen "flying a sign" in Greenville for money. Even though he made $50 in one hour (according to him), Paul assured him that his behavior was contrary to his professed Christian beliefs. Also, he could receive a nuisance charge by the local authorities for panhandling which could result in a fine and/or time in the jail. In addition, we all impressed upon him to earn money the old fashion way; a job. Eric seemed to take the advise very well. Later, we gave Eric a ride across town where he knew someone who would let him spend the night.

We served 100 meals with the assistance of 18 volunteers. We had a very large crowd and ran out of food. Paul made a trip to Church's Fried Chicken to provide food for the remaining folks. It is very difficult to plan the quantity of food not knowing what kind of turn out we will have each week. But in the last five years, I don't think we have had to send out for food more than 3 or 4 times. We usaually have what we need to meet others needs.
~Marc

Meeting Needs

Every Tuesday we receive various requests from the homeless. This week Becky asked for a flash light because it is dark living under a bridge at night. That is all she asked for even though it was obvious she needed much more. Bonnie left while everyone was eating and purchased a flash light and a blanket. Unfortunately, we do not always have on hand what is requested so a trip to the store is not unusual. Wayne seemed to be satisfied this week and did not ask for anything. He related to me that he had a ticket from labor finders for a temporary job and felt his future job prospects were good. He always looks neat and clean even though he and his significant other are sleeping on the street. He even offered me some of his anti-bacterial gel to clean my hands before serving drinks that night. He had received that little gift from a local church. But some homeless are not as social. Ike came in at the end of Paul's message and kept mumbling. Fortunately, it was never loud enough to disturb anyone other than few sitting close to him. He wanted his meal and a quick picture and then he was out the door.

Last Tuesday we served 55 meals with the assistance of 14 volunteers. Our kitchen manager (we call him Sarge) was out of town this week but a first time volunteer came in and filled his role perfectly. God always provides. We even had few younger volunteers who seemed to enjoy helping serve tea and water. We are grateful for young and old who take their time to come each Tuesday night to minister to the homeless and less fortunate in Greenville.

~Marc