Testimonies
Matthew 5:16, “In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”
A week ago the FIRE discipleship class had the privilege to serve the Lord in a mighty way with Bridgetown Ministries in Portland, Oregon. Some of the areas we were all able to work in were walkabouts, foot washing, table conversationalists, and listening with those who need an ear to hear.
One experience I had while serving at Bridgetown was when I was on the walkabout. As my group was walking around the streets of downtown Portland we stopped to talk to a man who was eating at a shelter. After a couple minutes of speaking with him, he excused himself to go and give the rest of his food to another homeless person whom he did not know. When I saw him give the homeless person all he had left, it made me think about Christians, wondering whether or not we are as selfless with all we have. As a Christian when you see a fellow believer in need do you help or just walk on by. Looking at the homeless people on the streets sharing with one another it has helped me to realize that we need to help those in need and share the love of Christ. We need to be thankful for what we have and bless those who have nothing. One other thing I learned was to not look at people as just homeless but as Children of Christ whom God loves just as much as anyone else.
One experience I had while serving at Bridgetown was when I was on the walkabout. As my group was walking around the streets of downtown Portland we stopped to talk to a man who was eating at a shelter. After a couple minutes of speaking with him, he excused himself to go and give the rest of his food to another homeless person whom he did not know. When I saw him give the homeless person all he had left, it made me think about Christians, wondering whether or not we are as selfless with all we have. As a Christian when you see a fellow believer in need do you help or just walk on by. Looking at the homeless people on the streets sharing with one another it has helped me to realize that we need to help those in need and share the love of Christ. We need to be thankful for what we have and bless those who have nothing. One other thing I learned was to not look at people as just homeless but as Children of Christ whom God loves just as much as anyone else.
Acts 20:35 says, “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' "
The second great experience I had was when we went under the Burnside Bridge and was able to speak with some of the people there. One man I remember quit vividly was a man named Richard. Sarah and I decided to go speak with him so we could get to know him. As we sat there making small talk Richard said, “If you guys can, will you pray with me?” Right away I knew this was a divine encounter from God. As we prayed for Richard and his alcohol issue, we could feel the Holy Spirit’s presence, and we know that Richard could too.
After the many great experience we all received, I cannot wait to go and help at Bridgetown Ministries again. It is always a great experience to humble oneself before men and learn to see people with the eyes of God and not the eyes of men.
-Brittany
Our Super Bowl Party for the city of West Palm happened February 7th and was such a beautiful experience. I really want to think you for your insight and encouragement. It definitely went smoothly because you were able to pass on your experience to us. The volunteers we had for the foot washing tent blew me away! They made the men who came in feel completely comfortable, and it was unreal to see really tentative, tough men melt right before our eyes as their feet were being massaged and cleaned and they talked about the game, their lives, etc. Puts a whole new meaning on what you quoted me: "Preach the gospel and if necessary use words."
Thanks again for everything! The church down here wants to continue this kind of service because it went so well. I hope all is going well for you and your ministry!
-Erin
November 19th~When the homeless go to this weekly "event" they can have their feet washed and massaged and lotion or baby powder put on and also a new pair of socks. One man said he always takes the new socks because it is a luxury! Can you imagine being this excited over a pair of socks and considering it a luxury? These stories just make me more thankful for the little things like socks and lotion that we take for granted every day. These people aren't getting baths or showers every day but I do and the water is hot.
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