How can I be more grateful? God spoke so clearly to me. He showed me again that my efforts are not what He requires. He showed me that my submission was His desire. People, God moved on Saturday. He took a body of believers and in an instant, moved them to care for His children. I had the privilege of seeing about 30 believers mobilized to do God's work for the homeless of downtown Jacksonville. We had people organizing clothes that were going to be given away. We had people cleaning up a children's playground. We had people preparing food. We had a two young men preparing hearts for praise with the Word of God and with music (on a moments notice!). We had men sitting with homeless hearts, desperate for fellowship. We had a body of believers living out our common faith in Jesus Christ. A faith that is followed by good works. And people? We did it ALL to our God! In serving, clothing, feeding each and every homeless man, woman and child there, we did it unto Him! If that doesn't light you up, I don't know what will! I cannot be more grateful to God! It is my prayer that each of you consider the work God did in you that day and share it here, on our blog. Let this be a place where we can share the stories that will build this body of believers into servants of Jesus Christ!
Gathering outside of the Trinity Rescue Mission. Velma, the Volunteer Coordinator took us on a tour of the facilities to show us what they needed done.
Sorting donations in the clothing room.
They get a lot of clothing donations that have to be sorted out for the men, women, and children. When residents see an item they need or want, they have to "pay" for it by doing chores around the mission.
There are many children that come and stay at the mission with their moms. We got to spend some time with them, reading to them and playing with them. We hope to start a tutoring program with the kids there. These UNF students spent the morning reading with them and helping them practice writing. The kids had a blast!
The Praise Machine, "featuring Joe Dowdy"... :)
During the two service times, we got the opportunity to minister to the residents of the mission through song, testimonies, and preaching. It was a beautiful time of worship. In between the men's and women's services, we served lunch to all of the residents.
Our friends from University Baptist jumped in the kitchen and helped prepare and serve the food to the residents of the mission.
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