August Newsletter
On the drive home from Celebrate Recovery, my friend sat in the back, leaning forward between the seats, sharing her journey of faith and her encounters with Jesus. There’s something special about these side-by-side moments, whether it’s during a car ride or an art project. They often lead to some of the most meaningful conversations.
She reminisced about the various churches she had attended, recalling fond memories of those that treated her with kindness and painful ones of those that didn’t. She mentioned how much she appreciated churches that served breakfast – they were often her favorite.
Having lived on the streets across Denver, she has experienced many different congregations. Her rich spiritual life and unwavering faith in the goodness of God continually inspire me to draw closer to Jesus.
We were laughing about a joyful memory when her demeanor shifted. Her voice trembled as she recounted a particularly painful experience. She had been attending a church she enjoyed, worshipping enthusiastically from a back pew, often raising her hands in praise of “my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.” This phrase, “my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,” is one she uses frequently, reflecting her deep devotion.
One day, she invited a friend from the streets to join her at church. The friend, nervous about the new experience, had a few drinks beforehand. During the service, her friend was a bit too loud and animated. Before the sermon began, a security guard approached them.
As my friend described this moment, I saw the hurt in her eyes. She looked down at her wrists and recounted, “He grabbed my arms. He actually put his hands on me and made me leave. I was just trying to tell my friend about my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I was just trying to worship Him. That guy didn’t need to do that. He didn’t need to hurt me and throw me out of his church. The church is supposed to welcome the poor, not throw them out. Why are the people who need the church the most so often excluded?”
I had to turn away as tears filled my eyes. I managed to say, “I’m so sorry that happened to you. That is not how the Church is supposed to act. That is not Jesus’ heart for you.”
I don’t remember much of the conversation after that. I hugged her tightly before dropping her off, grateful that she now has places where she feels welcome.
Despite the painful stories like this, I remain hopeful for the future of the Church. I’ve seen congregations rekindle their passion for Jesus and the Kingdom of God, embracing holiness and mission by loving their neighbors and the poor in their communities. When we focus more on people’s souls than the color of the carpet transformation happens.
I want to comfort my friend and create welcoming spaces for her. More than that, I want to help change the American Church. The Church was never meant to be an exclusive club with bouncers.
If your church wants to join in caring for the poor in our city, but you don't know where to start, we’re here to help. We have team members ready to share with your church, small group, or friends about poverty and Biblical poverty alleviation. Join us in living on mission by serving a meal, teaching a class, or participating in outreach.
Prayer Requests:
- There was a shooting last week that left many of our friends in shock. Pray that the police find the shooter and that he will comfort those who were around.
- Pray for our friend with many health concerns who is having surgery tomorrow.
- Pray for our friend who has been determined to go to recovery, to have the courage to go.
- Pray for our team, staff and volunteers, this is hard work.