I know that many of you are on our campus on days other than Sunday for various gatherings, committee meetings, and bible studies. However, I thought it would be interesting to share what it’s like when we receive visitors from outside of our church community throughout the week.

 

During certain times of year, it is not unusual for us to have one or two neighbors (sometimes more) ring the doorbell or make a phone call asking for assistance and prayer. Whenever that happens, one of the members of our administrative staff will direct that individual to one of the pastors. Generally, it begins with a conversation. I like to learn about who they are and where they’ve been, listen to what’s on their hearts, ask them questions about what they need and how we can help, and offer whatever encouragement I can in the process. We receive all sorts of visitors from all kinds of different ages and backgrounds. You almost wouldn’t believe some of the unusual situations I’ve come across during my time at Grace. I’ve met people with advanced degrees sleeping in their cars and without homes; young adults who’ve run away from stable homes who are lost and confused; frustrated people because their former employer let them go in a way that they felt was unjust. You really never know who and what you are going to encounter when someone walks through the door or makes a call. Of course, I try to help them. Usually, it’s as simple as walking with them to the Little Free Pantry and giving them one of our DART passes or gas cards that we keep on hand. Sometimes it’s a little more complicated, like finding another organization that offers social services that are best equipped to meet their needs.

 

Whatever the person’s situation might be, there is one commonality that I’ve found to be profoundly powerful in every single meeting: when I pray with our neighbors and remind them that they are a beloved child of God. I don’t always have the right words to say, and it might not solve all of their particular problems that day, but it lightens the burden a little. It doesn’t put an end to the very real crises they are facing, but it reminds our new friends that they aren’t walking alone. It might not give folks everything they need, but it provides a glimpse of hope into God’s coming Kingdom. And though you might not be there with me while I’m actively engaged in these conversations, I feel the encouragement of our community behind me when they happen.

 

I couldn’t do what I do without each one of you. We live in a hurting world that can at times look quite bleak and it is a blessing to be a part of a community that cares about being a shining light in the midst of darkness. So, thanks to each one of you for empowering me to do what I do.

Peace,
Wilson