Monday, 10-15-18

 Written by Beth Small:  The first day of the service team. Working on the team always brings a mix of emotions there is always some nervousness and excitement not knowing what the day will bring. Today working in children's having a child come up to me and tell me they want their hair washed by me is a blessing. It seems so simple to wash someone's hair but we have no idea the relief it might bring to have it washed and styled with clean water. Then later in the afternoon in evangelism the stories we hear are always amazing. Working with the inturpters to tell of the love of Jesus we never know which one that might be that really needs the message. Today I was fortunate enough to have my bible open already to Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, ' plans to prosper you and not harm you,  plans to give you hope and a future.'" When a women and her two boys came and sat in the chair across from me.  As we were talking and she mentioned she hadn't been to church in awhile and knew she needed to come back. I read that verse to her and those words are what she needed to hear from me today. After reading and amongst the tears she explained some of the struggle she was having in her life. Even though I was not able to say I knew those struggles personally I could relate to knowing how hard it is to forgive those that hurt us. As we sat and discussed I reminded her and myself that even when we have a hard time forgiving those around us God always forgives us and loves us. He never forsakes and always has a plan for our life. After talking and sharing the message of Gods unfailing love with her. She then proceeded to tell me that I had a purpose for being here and that was to make sure she knew she was loved. It was an amazing experience to hear those words from her that a few minutes ago she didnt believe herself. So as the day ended at the site I had a different set of emotions and that was peace knowing that I was here for a reason knowing I could reach out to these people and share Gods love by a simple touch or hug.